DETROIT _ Indians ace Corey Kluber had to be taken out of his start on Tuesday with lower back discomfort after only three innings pitched. It looks as though the stiffness in his lower back will cost him a bit more time.
The Indians on Wednesday placed Kluber on the 10-day disabled list with a lower back strain and recalled relief pitcher Joe Colon.
Kluber has been dealing with a back issue for most of the season. He pitched through back stiffness in his second start of the year against the Arizona Diamondbacks and has been managing it ever since. On Tuesday, possibly in part due to the cold temperatures, it was the worst it has been and forced his exit from the game.
Kluber's inclusion on the disabled list could be made a bit less painful thanks to MLB's switch to the 10-day disabled list _ as opposed to the 15-day DL _ this season. With an off day upcoming on May 11, Kluber could conceivably only miss one start depending on how long he needs before returning.
Colon temporarily gives the Indians a nine-man bullpen after Shawn Armstrong was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on Tuesday. The Indians won't need a fifth starter until Sunday's game against the Kansas City Royals.
Mike Clevinger could be the top option to be called up to Cleveland for a spot start that day. Clevinger pitched last night, so his day to start would line up with Kluber's. Clevinger also has a 1.50 ERA this season at Triple-A Columbus.
