The Oakland Athletics are now down their best starting pitcher and their All-Star closer.
One day after it was announced that ace starter Frankie Montas has been suspended 80 games, the A’s placed closer Blake Treinen on the IL with a shoulder injury.
The good news here is that it does not seem to be a structural injury. Treinen should be able to come back here soon with some rest. That’s the hope.
Acquired from the Washington Nationals midway through the 2017 season, Treinen has been dominant in Oakland. He pitched to a 0.78 ERA and 0.83 WHIP while striking out 100 batters in 80 innings and saving 38 games last season.
This season has been somewhat different. Whether it’s the shoulder injury or something else, Treinen has pitched to a 4.08 ERA and bloated 1.53 WHIP.