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It’s been 19 days since Corey Kluber last took the mound for the Cleveland Indians. Following a May 2 start against the Detroit Tigers, it was revealed that Kluber was suffering from a lower back strain and was placed on the 10-day disabled list.
In that time, the Indians starting rotation has struggled. Mike Clevinger’s no-hitter and a couple gems from Josh Tomlin nothwistanding, the Indians really miss their ace. Even Carlos Carrasco, who was solid to start the season, struggled then went down an injury of his own, though he is expected to return on Tuesday.
Kluber began throwing off a mound just Monday, and threw a three-inning simulated game on Saturday. According to Paul Hoynes of the Plains Dealer, Kluber will have his first rehab game on Thursday, “if all goes well.”
Corey Kluber, after throwing 3-inning sim game Saturday, will throw bullpen session Monday. Rehab game on Thur. if all goes well.
— paul hoynes (@hoynsie) May 21, 2017
Kluber made six starts before a series of minor injuries caught up with him. His 5.06 ERA and 4.33 FIP pointed to something being a little off, though he was still striking out more than a batter per inning. With the blister that hindered his first start long behind him, and hopefully this lower back issue leaving next, we may finally get to see a healthy Kluber in 2017.