The Baltimore Orioles announced this morning All-Star closer Zach Britton has been placed on the disabled list due to left forearm soreness.
Steve Melewski reported the news Sunday.
Buck said Britton felt something with forearm throwing curve Fri. Too soon to know if he can return 10 days.
— Steve Melewski (@masnSteve) April 16, 2017
This could mean a number of things.
The scary part about forearm soreness is it’s often the first sign that Tommy John surgery could be in a pitcher’s future. However, Manager Buck Showalter spoke to media and said the team does not anticipate being without the two-time All-Star for very long.
Britton struggled early on this season and wasn’t exactly the same man who was being considered among Cy Young candidates in 2016. His campaign during his sixth season with the O’s was sensational. He finished with a 1.94 ERA and in 67 innings had 74 strikeouts. He also had a league-leading 47 saves and was in MVP talks.
Showalter is still unsure if Britton will go the full 10 days on the disabled list. Until then, the team has recalled Stefan Crichton to make room for starter Alec Asher who will take over responsibilities for the time being.