Article: Back spasms bench Thome

Jim Thome left Philadelphia's game against Florida on Saturday night after four innings with lower back spasms.

Thome was bothered by back problems during spring training and missed a game last weekend when his back flared up.

The All-Star first baseman struggled the first month of the season, finishing April with just one homer, a .203 average and 27 strikeouts in 79 at-bats.

A fan favorite in Philadelphia after signing an $85 million, six- year contract in December 2002, Thome has been booed loudly in recent games.

"I know Jimmy. I think he knows he hasn't been hitting great. If anything, it might help him," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said before the game. "I don't want fans to boo ...

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