JP To Start On The DL

Yesterday it was announced that relief pitcher JP Howell will not participate for the remaining 10 games of Spring Training and will more than likely start the season on the disabled list with a tired shoulder. Last year, Howell was a significant part of the Rays bullpen recording 17 saves and 7 wins.

With Howell starting the season on the disabled list, I would think the Rays would have to bring back up Jeremy Hellickson, who was sent down to Minor League Camp on Tuesday. Hellickson has shown tremendous stuff during this Spring and bringing him up as a reliever will give him some experience at the major league level. Hellickson is one of the Rays top prospects and was not going to stay  in the minors very long to begin with and should be a good replacement until JP Howell gets his shoulder strength back if he is the one to take his place for the time being.