UPDATE, 6:35: Manager Joe Maddon said Burrell was sent home to determine how serious the problem was since it hadn't really responded to treatment. "Not that it's gotten worse, it's not getting better. I think that's the better way to describe it,'' Maddon said.

Burrell was expected to be seen by Tolly sometime Wednesday night. If it's not serious, he will rejoin the team and they will continue treatment.

"We just thought it's at that point, let's relaly see what's going on there if it's anything more, and if there's not, that's great and we'll just continue along the same path,'' Maddon said.

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Tampa Bay Rays DH Pat Burrell flew back to Florida today to have his lingering stiff neck checked by a doctor.

Burrell sat out Tuesday's game due to the lingering stiffness, which first sidelined him April 28. Though he was said to be available for pinch-hit duty, the fact that he wasn't used in a prime situation - two outs in the ninth, against a lefty closer, when a home run would tie the game - spoke to the seriousness of his condition.

Burrell was to be seen by Dr. Tom Tolli, the team's back specialist. Willy Aybar took his place in Wednesday's lineup.

Burrell has struggled to hit with power this season, with only five extra-base hits (one homer) thus far. The Rays signed him to a two-year, $16-million contract.