Texas Rangers pitcher Joe Saunders left Friday nights start after being hit with a comebacker.
The veteran left hander had x-rays taken and was later diagnosed with a bruised ankle.
While Saunders appears to have avoided a serious injury his time in the Rangers rotation could be short lived as it appears to be just a matter of time before he is replaced by Colby Lewis when the team moves to a five man rotation. Yu Darvish could take Saunders spot the next time though the rotation.
X-rays negative on Joe Saunders. Bruised left ankle. No word on if he will make his next start. Yu Darvish, Colby Lewis would be available.
— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilson_FWST) April 5, 2014
Saunders lasted just 3 2/3 innings allowing four runs on six hits before leaving the game. He walked three and struck out four.
Saunders was 11-16 last season with a 5.26 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP in 32 starts for the Seattle Mariners.