The Minnesota Twins have shut down closer Glen Perkins for the season after he was diagnosed with what the team is calling forearm and nerve irritation.
“It’s actually good news,” Twins general manager Terry Ryan told the Pioneer Press. “We don’t think it’s anything that’s going to hinder his ability to be ready to go (next spring). It’s just maintenance and strengthening as we go through the winter months.”
According to Hard Ball Talk, neck problems surfaced for Perkins a few weeks ago and he struggled to pitch through the discomfort. Over his last eight outings (6 1/3 innings), Perkins gave up five home runs as his ERA ballooned to 14.21 over that stretch.
Perkins will be shut down for the remainder of the season, but there isn’t any structural damage to the ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow.
MRIs were on Perkins' neck, shoulder and elbow. Dr. Steubs: "His ulnar collateral is perfect. It really is good for the throwing he’s done."
— Mike BerardinoNDI (@MikeBerardino) September 20, 2014
According to 1500 ESPN, Perkins had three MRI exams on his left shoulder, elbow and forearm. Dr. Steubs classified the injury as a stensor muscle strain, which caused the nerve irritation.
“We did extensive testing all the way from his neck down to his forearm and there’s no sign of any nerve damage,” Steubs said. “It’s something that we should be able to manage with some therapy and a good program.”
Perkins was hoping to visit Japan as part of a major league all-star team, but the injury will cause him to sit that out.
No Japan tour for Perkins, obviously. But should be ready for start of spring training
— Mike BerardinoNDI (@MikeBerardino) September 19, 2014
Last year the Twins and Perkins inked a contract extension through 2017 that still will pay him a minimum of $18.15 million. There’s also a team option for 2018 at $6.5 million.
