San Diego Padres starter Tyson Ross has not looked right this season. As it turns out, a shoulder issue may be to blame.
San Diego Padres former All-Star starter Tyson Ross is set to undergo an MRI on his right shoulder, which has kept him out of action since April 5, per multiple reporters via MLB Trade Rumors. Dennis Lin of the San Diego Union-Tribune reported that Ross had begun playing catch, but a return was not yet imminent.
While it’s still not clear what exactly is ailing Ross, his injury is surely more severe than the team initially expected. When first landing on the disabled list, Ross had thought he would only miss the minimum amount of time – but with no rehab assignment in the near future after fifteen days on the DL, it’s likely he’ll be out for the foreseeable future.
The San Diego Padres righty has been their best pitcher over the past three seasons, while earning an All-Star nod back in 2014. Last season, Ross posted a 3.26 ERA with a 2.98 FIP and a career-high 9.73 K/9 mark. While his ERA increased from the 2.81 he posted in 2014, Ross was undeniably dominant last season after fine tuning some of his mechanics.
MLB Trade Rumors noted that 39 percent of Ross’ pitches over the past three seasons have been sliders, and some have questioned his delivery method in the past. With questions surrounding his long-term health, a change in delivery may be in order if this injury proves to be serious.
With veterans James Shields and Andrew Cashner atop the rotation in Ross’ place, the team has called upon the unproven trio of Drew Pomeranz, Robbie Erlin and Colin Rea to round out the rotation. The trio have posted a 4.26 combined ERA through 15 games this season.
With Rea in the majors, the Padres don’t have any impact pitching prospects ready to step up if need be – so a quick return from Ross will be crucial to the Padres success going forward this season. San Diego decided not to trade Ross in the offseason despite lots of interest from other teams, and if Ross’ injury proves to be serious, the team may regret that decision in the long run.
However, at only 28, Ross should have plenty of solid baseball left in the tank once he’s able to return.