Ryan Mount’s Quakes debut likely delayed

When last season ended, it was a foregone conclusion that Ryan Mount would be a Quake in 2008.

That will still likely be the case eventually, but don’t expect to see Mount in the lineup opening night, April 3.

Mount, who was the Angels’ second-round draft pick in 2005 out of Ayala High School, is ranked as the Angels’ 14th-best prospect in the minor leagues this season. Last year, the second baseman batted .251 with seven home runs and 19 stolen bases for low Single-A Cedar Rapids, one rung below the Quakes. But he played in only 85 games after injuring his hamstring in spring training and his quadriceps muscle midway through the season.

As is the case for many young players, there are opportunities to play with the big club in spring training as non-roster invitees. Mount had his chance recently, but while playing second base, he took a throw from shortstop Chone Figgins and suffered a sprained knee during a play at second, his uncle, Bob Mount said.

He won’t be able to do much for the next two or three weeks, then his rehabilitation in Arizona will likely extend into April before he finally reports to Rancho Cucamonga, Bob Mount said.