Shane Baz Shut Down 4 Weeks with Elbow Injury

After good news for the club about RHP Luis Patino and 2B Brandon Lowe yesterday, a huge setback was announced for top prospect Shane Baz, as the RHP has landed in the IL again after spraining his right elbow.

Baz reportedly felt discomfort this week when playing catch and then received an injection in his elbow. Elbow injuries are always concerning for young pitchers, but the Rays are being extra cautious after Baz had arthroscopic surgery on that same elbow that held the right hander out the first few months.

Baz looked great in his first few starts back, sporting a 2.92 ERA before allowing three home runs and seven runs total to the Reds a few days ago. Baz was going to be a huge part of the stretch run for Tampa Bay, and now the club will have to deal with yet another injury to one of their arms.

One has to wonder whether or not the club can survive another injury or setback to a key player. It is amazing that the club has remained in contention with the injuries they have had so far, and they desperately need better luck. The club may have to get creative at the deadline to fill as many needs as possible, while also hoping for great recoveries from guys who are on their way back

Right hander Luke Bard was called up to take Baz's place on the roster and will provide innings out of the bullpen for Tampa Bay. With the return of Luis Patino, the hope is that Patino can be built up quickly to replace the Baz innings for the club.