Stretching the Field: Time to Deal with the Pain

ESPN 1530—July 11, 2014

Major League Baseball is approaching its annual All-Star festivities and it gives clubs time to rest and relax. For some, however, the respite isn't long enough to lick wounds and prepare for the stretch run.

A pitcher's worst nightmare is an elbow injury and it could either mean a stint on the disabled list or a visit to the surgeon.

New York Yankees ace Masahiro Tanaka is hoping he won't have to see an operating table on his ailing right arm. The Japanese phenom experienced discomfort in his elbow during Tuesday's start against Cleveland and exited after 6 2/3 innings, charged with five runs and 10 hits, including two home runs.

Tanaka was examined in Seattle by Yankees physician Christopher Ahmad as well as orthopedist Dr. David Altchek and Los Angeles Dodgers physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache.

It is not known how long Tanaka may have experienced pain in the elbow, but his record says otherwise. Before the Indians jumped on the rookie, the All- Star had a 12-3 record, a 2.27 ERA and led the majors in wins. Tanaka also ranked second in the AL and sixth in the majors in ERA.

This story originally appeared on espn1530.com.