Unfortunate news out of Arlington today as potential Texas Rangers ace Corey Kluber discovered he has a grade 2 tear of the teres major muscle in his throwing shoulder. Kluber exited the game after his 1st inning of work in his debut appearance in a Ranger uniform. Kluber’s 1st inning looked promising as he struck out lead-off hitter David Dahl and retired the side without allowing a run. This came as a shock because Kluber showed no visible discomfort when he was removed from the game, but obviously that was not the case. Kluber will be shut down from throwing for a minimum of 4 week as well as being placed on the IL. He will receive platelet-rich plasma therapy later in the week. Texas GM Jon Daniels said “Time is not on our side.” In all likelihood if Kluber returns this season it would be in a reduced role most likely as a reliever. Kolby Allard or Joe Palumbo will be called upon for more work as one will have to replace Kluber in the rotation. This is a huge blow to a Rangers team that through 3 games has been underwhelming as an offense to say the least. It was well known that Texas would be leaning on the strength of their rotation during this shortened season. For the Rangers to have a chance to stay in the playoff hunt, this lineup will have to step up and play a bigger role providing run support for less experienced staring pitchers.
