Roy Halladay Leaves Start with Sore Shoulder

Philadelphia Phillies starter Roy Halladay was removed from Sunday’s game after pitching just two innings against the St. Louis Cardinals. Although the two-time Cy Young award winner was not off to a good start, having surrendered a grand slam to Yadier Molina in the first, the move was not based on performance, but rather a sore shoulder.

For their part, the Phillies initially claimed the decision was made merely out of precaution, although both Halladay and Philadelphia’s pitching coach Rich Dubee admitted that this has been a lingering issue this season. Since the severity is not yet known, however, Halladay’s status is uncertain until further evaluation. At this time, no MRI is scheduled, but due to the alarming nature of all shoulder issues, the medical staff will take no chances on sending the 35-year-old back to the mound if there are any concerns whatsoever.

Halladay’s early season struggles, particularly in his past two starts, are well documented, but the majority of his peripherals (including strikeouts, walks, and WHIP) are all in line with his career averages. Pitch usage statistics indicate he’s throwing his fastball less often this season, and at a slightly reduced velocity, but there is nothing overwhelmingly convincing to indicate Halladay is hiding an injury or starting his decline phase.

Although Halladay’s ERA sits at an uncharacteristic 3.98 after the unsuccessful, abbreviated outing on Sunday, the number is somewhat unlucky based on the more advanced pitching metrics. In regards to both his early season performance and the news on his shoulder, it’s too early to hit the panic button on the eight-time All-Star and anchor of the Phillies rotation.

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