Matt Harrison leaves game early with apparent arm injury

Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Another scare has emerged for the Texas Rangers pitching staff this week, as left-hander Matt Harrison was forced to leave Tuesday’s game early with an apparent arm injury. There have yet to be any additional updates on his situation.

Harrison took the mound for his fourth start of the season, but didn’t last long. Harrison appeared to be fine physically until a sudden change in velocity, notes Ben Dieter of Nolan Writin. Both his changeup and fastball were hovering in the mid 80s and something didn’t look right, prompting a visit from manager Ron Washington, pitching coach Mike Maddux and team trainers. Harrison would promptly be pulled from the game with two outs in the second inning. He’d allowed three runs on four hits and three walks, including a two run home run to L.J. Hoes. Justin Germano replaced him in the game.

The start of Harrison’s season had been delayed until late April after he continued to experience pain in his back stemming from an injury that cost him nearly the entire 2013 season. He’d pitched well through his first three starts, posting a 2.87 ERA through 15.2 IP.

Texas has to be hopeful that they won’t be without Harrison for long given all of the pitchers they already have on the sidelines. Derek Holland isn’t expected back until around the All Star Break following knee surgery. Tanner Scheppers is recovering from elbow inflammation but may be better suited by a move to the bullpen upon his return. Joe Saunders is still working his way back from an ankle injury. Martin Perez also just underwent an MRI on his elbow, but he may only miss one or two starts.