Mariners’ James Paxton to undergo MRI Wednesday

By Shannon Drayer

James Paxton is scheduled to undergo a MRI Wednesday after suffering what was preliminary diagnosed as a strained left lat Tuesday night.

Paxton first felt what he called a “tweak” in the fifth inning of the Mariners’ 5-3 win over the Angels. It disappeared when he returned to the bench, but two batters into the sixth inning the tweak returned. Manager Lloyd McClendon and trainer Rob Nodine made a visit to the mound after McClendon noticed Paxton shake his arm after a pitch to the Angels’ Mike Trout. Paxton was then taken from the game.

At his locker following the win, Paxton did not appear to worried about the injury.

“I don’t think it’s going to be a big deal,” he said. “It’s not real pain. Just a little soreness.”

Paxton was originally scheduled to pitch next on Sunday but that starter is now listed as TBA. Chris Young could easily fall into that spot. The Mariners would then need a starter for Tuesday’s game in Texas. Blake Beavan would be an option or they could possibly go with Taijuan Walker, who is scheduled to pitch Wednesday for Double-A Jackson.

McClendon said late last week that Walker could be less than 10 days away, indicating that he could be ready to go after the Jackson start, but they could elect to go with another rehab start before having him return.

We should learn more on Wednesday.