Jonathan Gray diagnosed with abdominal strain, no timetable for return

SCOTTSDALE – The Rockies have announced the results of Jonathan Gray’s MRI and the future ace of the staff has suffered an abdominal strain. There is no timetable for his return. Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post was the first to report.

Gray experienced discomfort on Tuesday when he took the mound in a start against the Brewers. Gray only faced three batters before being removed from the game.

The Rockies feel lucky that Gray tweaked something in his abdomen and not something more serious in his arm. “It could be a lot worse but anytime you’re dealing with an injury it’s not ideal,” Rockies manager Walt Weiss pointed out after Tuesday’s victory. “He said he was feeling it (abdomen injury) and was hurting on certain pitches. When you hear that you have to take him out and proceed with caution.”

It’s hard to assess how long Gray could be out as abdominal strains can tend to linger and the only treatment is rest. If Gray does have to spend some time on the disabled list it will give a chance for one of the many guys vying for a spot at the end of the rotation. Jordan Lyles is throwing a bullpen session on Wednesday and Tyler Chatwood will make his 4th spring start on Thursday against the Mariners at Salt River. Lefty Chris Rusin also is likely to be a factor should Gray need to miss some time once the season begins.