Tampa Bay Starter Shut Down For At Least A Month

The Tampa Bay Rays must be wondering when it will end. They've suffered yet another injury to a key player, having to place young starter Shane Baz on the 15-day IL. But he'll be out much longer than that. 

The Rays have placed RH Shane Baz (right elbow sprain) on the 15-day IL, retroactive to July 13, and recalled RH Luke Bard from Triple-A Durham.

Baz was evaluated today by Dr. Keith Meister in Dallas. He will receive an injection, rest and rehab for at least the next four weeks.

— Rays Communications (@RaysPR) July 14, 2022

Baz has been shut down for at least a month with an elbow sprain. He'll start with an injection, then do nothing but rest and rehab for four weeks. But according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, he could possibly be out for "several months." 

“Baz experienced right elbow discomfort while playing catch on Tuesday," said a team release. "He was evaluated today by Dr. Keith Meister in Dallas. He will receive an injection, rest and rehab for at least the next four weeks. A timeline for his return will be established based upon his progression.’'

Baz becomes the Rays' MLB-leading 17th player to go on the IL. The list includes key players such as Wander Franco, Manuel Margot, and Kevin Kiermaier, and pitchers Andrew Kittredge, J.P. Feyereisen, Jeffrey Springs, and of course Tyler Glasnow. 

The good news is that Brandon Lowe and Pete Fairbanks are expected back sometime this week. 

Photo Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports