Roy Oswalt Lands on DL

Added on Jun 24, 2011 by Scott in

MLB

Phillies starting pitcher Roy Oswalt is heading back to the disabled list. Chronic back pain will sideline the three-time All-Star for the second time this season. He’s expected to miss at least two starts, but could possibly be forced to sit much longer if the inflammation doesn’t subside.

Oswalt has been battling pain for the majority of the season. His first stint on the DL lasted 20 days from April 27th to May 16th. Regular cortisone shots have been used to treat the injury without much improvement. Doctors will now turn to alternative treatments.

“You only get so many shots,” [Oswalt] said. “After you get so many of them, stuff starts breaking off, so I don’t want that to happen.”

The 33-year-old has managed 13 starts in 2011 with a 4-6 record and 3.79 ERA. In the month of June, he is 1-4 with a 5.81 ERA. Last year Oswalt went 7-1 with a 1.74 ERA after being traded from Houston to Philadelphia. In eleven big league seasons, he is 154-89.

Along with Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels, Oswalt is part of the most formidable rotation in baseball. The former have combined for 26 wins and 336 strikeouts. Philly ranks second in the majors in pitching, trailing only division rival Atlanta. Their eight complete games and ten shutouts tops all teams.

To fill Oswalt’s roster spot, right-hander Scott Mathieson was recalled from Triple-A. Mathieson recorded a 2.59 ERA with five saves in 19 appearances in the minors. The 27-year-old started eight games in 2006 for the Phillies, going 1-4 with a 7.47 ERA.

There is some speculation Oswalt’s season, and possibly his career, could be in jeopardy. While nothing has been confirmed regarding his long-term status, chronic back pain for hurlers in their 30s is never a good thing.

The Phillies still boast the best record in baseball at 47-29. Their lead over the Braves in the NL East is currently four games. Tonight they begin a weekend series at home versus Oakland.

Source: ESPN.com