I have the feeling there's more to this story, and few people if any except Sammy, Carbo and Bob know about it.
If not, I don't see why Carbo would have decided not to dress him tonight. I really thought he'd be playing - because it's clear that Sammy would have been motivated tonight: he'll want to prove everyone wrong.
I just heard that Rivet and Johnson might be sick (overheard the tv) - maybe there's hope yet then...