Texas Rangers relief pitcher Josh Sbortz was ejected from Saturday night's game against the Houston Astros after throwing just eight pitches.
Sborz, a mainstay in the Rangers' bullpen who pitched in the World Series deciding game against the Arizona Diamondbacks last season, showed discomfort in his neck and shoulder area after pitching the eighth time, prompting manager Bruce Bochy to remove him from the mound. I decided to visit. Pitching coach Mike Maddux and members of the Rangers' training staff.
After a long press conference on the mound, Sborz left the game and went down to the Rangers' dugout. He was replaced by closer Jose Leclerc.
No word yet on whether Sborz could be injured or if he was simply taken out as a precaution during what was the Rangers' eighth game of the season. Either way, an injury to the bullpen arm would be another blow to a season that has been going well and already dealt with another significant injury to the starting lineup.
update: According to Bruce Bochy, Sborz is experiencing pain in his shoulder and will undergo a full evaluation on Sunday.
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