Official release from the Indians…
CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has placed RHP JAKE WESTBROOK on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to Sunday, April 20th with a left intercostal strain. To replace Westbrook’s spot on the Major League roster the Indians recalled OF BEN FRANCISCO from AAA Buffalo.
Westbrook has made 4 starts for the Indians so far this year as he is 1-2 with a 2.73 ERA (29.2IP, 28H, 10R/9ER, 5BB, 16K). His 2.73 ERA currently ranks 14th in the American League. Today marks the 5th DL stint of his Major League career.
Francisco started the year on the AAA Buffalo roster after being optioned at the conclusion of spring training (March 27). He was batting .208 (15-72) with 7 runs scored, 2 doubles, a triple and 3RBI in 18 games for the Bisons. Francisco appeared in 16 spring training games as he hit .362 (17-47) with 8 runs scored, 3 doubles, 3HR and 9RBI. He wears #12 and will be in uniform tonight when the Indians take on the Kansas City Royals at 8:10PM EST in Kauffman Stadium.
Wow. That really sucks. Yeah, Westbrook will be back, but he was in such a groove starting back in Spring Training. You hate to see a guy shelved, but especially when he’s on a hot streak because you know that he won’t pick up right where he left off. The question that remains is what are the Indians going to do about that spot in the rotation? Bringing up Ben Francisco doesn’t solve the problem. Perhaps another move will come in a few days when the Indians will need that starter. Stay tuned…
Author: Rick
Rick is a co-founder and editor of WFNY. His love of Cleveland sports is surpassed only by his faith and love of his family. Follow him on Twitter- @rickwfny.Rick has written 743 articles for Waiting for Next Year.
Man, shows what I know. I didn’t even know he was bothered by injury.
I wouldn’t mind seeing Laffey get the nod. Dudes tossing some good ball so far…
I don’t think anyone saw this coming outside the Indians’ clubhouse
There’s actually a chance that Wedge still doesn’t know…