Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Mike Clevinger exited Sunday’s 3-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth inning due to injury.
Mike Clevinger was absolutely dealing Sunday. Through five innings Clevinger only allowed one hit and struck out 12 Blue Jays batters. Then suddenly Neil Ramirez was warming up in the bullpen. Clevinger’s day was done and at first many were not sure why. Turns out that Clevinger left the game due to upper back tightness.
While initially many were concerned, Clevinger’s removal was precautionary.
There are a couple things to take away from this report. First off that Mike Clevinger will make his next scheduled start This is good since Cleveland’s next off day is not until Thursday April 18. Cleveland not having to shuffle their rotation due to an injury is crucial. The Indians dodged a bullet with what appears to be a minor injury.
Next is the overreaction part of the report. Yes this can be considered an overreaction. It can also be considered being safe. Cleveland’s success so far this season is entirely predicated on the starting rotation. In two games Clevinger has been spectacular. Only allowing two hits in 12 innings of work and striking out 22 batters. Not to mention the fact that Clevinger is yet to allow a run this season. These are video game numbers. There are a select few that are able to pitch at this level. Luckily for Cleveland three others are present on their roster in Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco and Trevor Bauer.
As long as Mike Clevinger is able to recover and stay on a somewhat normal pitching schedule there is no reason to panic. Clevinger may be skipped in the rotation after his next start just to monitor his health. As of now there does not appear to be a reason that would prevent Clevinger from being an integral part of the Indians rotation this season.
