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The Brewers technically have today off in the Cactus League, but decided to organize a “B” game to keep certain pitchers on schedule as they ramp up their work.
Adrian Houser was one of the pitchers throwing today, and it appears we may have our first injury scare of the spring. Bill Michaels reports that Houser was unable to finish his third inning of work and left the mound with the team trainer.
@Brewers P Houser leaving B Game early today with discomfort. Not positive of the issue but wasn't able to finish the 3rd inning of the game.
— Bill Michaels (@Bill_Michaels) March 2, 2020
2 1/3 innings, 2 hits, 0 run, 1 WP.
But the real news is whatever issues forced him from the game.
That sounds ominous, but the Brewers were quick to reassure everyone that nothing serious is wrong with the righty they hope takes a big step forward in the rotation this year.
Houser had reached his pitch count. He had a little thumb tightness so decided not to push it. - from David Stearns (via @MikeVassallo13; thank you, Mike)
— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) March 2, 2020
The Brewers are at least set up to cover a pitching injury if one were to occur — and likely will — happen this spring. Losing Houser would/would have been one of the more significant blows to the rotation, though, considering many expect him to be the second or third best starter behind Brandon Woodruff this year, given his work to close last season.
For now, it looks like the Brewers can breathe a sigh of relief, although the thumb issue may be worth monitoring going forward.