Angels’ Garrett Richards leaves early after highly-anticipated start
By Kyle Wigmore
Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Garrett Richards left the game early after an arm injury scare.
Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Garrett Richards had his 2017 debut come to a halt when he felt tightness in his bicep in the 5th inning of Wednesday night’s game against the Oakland
Athletics.
Richards was in the process of making his first start back since injuring his UCL on May 1st of the 2016 season, when catcher Martin Maldonado came out to check on him during the 5th inning.
Richards’ debut had looked promising, he pitched effectively over 4 2/3 innings while scattering three hits on no runs and striking out four.
"“My bicep was just kind of cramping a little bit,” Richards said. “Nothing serious. My arm feels good. I felt good tonight. Elbow feels fine. Shoulder feels fine. It was kind of a long inning and I kind of stiffened up a bit, but nothing to be worried about.”"
While the move was precautionary, it is still something to keep an eye on as the Angels start their season.
Richards isn’t far removed from being the ace of the Angels pitching staff and contending for a Cy Young in 2014. In order for the Angels to contend in the unforgiving AL West, Richards needs to be on the field as much as possible.
After choosing to forgo surgery on his UCL, the Angels will be very cautious with Richards moving forward.
Richards is still in line to make his next start at home Tuesday, April 11th against the Texas Rangers. The Angels went on to win the game with a 5-0 victory over the A’s.