Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Bud Norris was removed with one out in the first inning of his start on Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Norris threw 13 pitches, walked one batter and retired one before exiting.
He was twice checked on by Dodgers head athletic trainer Nate Lucero and manager Dave Roberts. The first instance came after Norris walked Jean Segura to open the game. Norris appeared to grab at his side and stretch his back prior to remaining in the game.
The Dodgers later announced Norris was removed with back muscle tightness. After Michael Bourn popped out, Lucero and Roberts returned to the mound and it marked the end of the day for the right-hander. Ross Stripling, who’s been exclusively used out of the bullpen since rejoining the Dodgers, took over in relief.
Norris was acquired from the Atlanta Braves in a five-player trade soon after it became apparent the club was to lose Clayton Kershaw to the 15-day disabled list.
The Dodgers have been linked to several starting pitchers, including Chris Archer of the Tampa Bay Rays, in the time leading up to Monday’s non-wavier trade deadline.
If Norris is to miss an extended period of time it may further incentivize the club to make a move prior to 1 p.m. PT on Monday. Norris entered 3-2 with a 4.40 ERA and 1.19 WHIP in six games (five starts) with the Dodgers.
Los Angeles currently has a four-man rotation in place as they have been able to bypass carrying a fifth starter until Aug. 6, because of off-days in the schedule.
