A few hours after Dave Trembley said Michael Gonzalez was unable to pitch Tuesday, the deposed closer has hit the disabled list with a strained left shoulder.
Gonzalez was asked repeatedly this spring about the health of his shoulder – primarily because his low-90s fastball was clocked in the mid-80s.
He kept saying he was fine, with the exception of some back stiffness. And now he is on the 15-day DL after three difficult appearances, including blowing two saves. He was 0-2 with one save and a 18.00 ERA.
The move is retroactive to April 10.
Gonzalez missed Monday to witness the birth of his first child. He was up in the bullpen on Tuesday but told Trembley he could not get loose.
Another move is pending. Expect either Kam Mickolio or Alberto Castillo to be recalled from Triple-A Norfolk.