Guardians likely to be down a bullpen arm when regular season begins

The most consistent and overall dominant group of players for the Cleveland Guardians last season was their bullpen. When the Guardians were in a position when a pitching change needed to be made, more often than not, the desired result was achieved. Cleveland's relief corps are expected to be relied on heavily again this season, making the latest injury update regarding Erik Sabrowski quite concerning.

Sabrowski has yet to appear in a spring training game for the Guardians and was recently the recipient of an anti-inflammatory injection to take care of an issue in his left elbow. This means that Sabrowski is most likely going to be on the injured list to begin the season, leaving the Guardians without an arm that was expected to play a large role this season.

Though no serious issue has been reported, Sabrowski receiving an anti-inflammatory injection in his throwing elbow is something to closely monitor. The 27-year-old lefty has already undergone Tommy John surgery twice in his career, with that in mind, any type of issue in his throwing elbow will result in a higher level of concern than those who have not had this procedure.

Sabrowski made his Major League Debut for the Cleveland Guardians late last season, and made the most of that opportunity. Appearing in 8 games during the month of September, Sabrowski did not allow a run in 12.2 innings while striking out 19 batters and allowing just 10 base runners (six hits, four walks).

Success on the mound was not limited to the regular season for Sabrowski, as he continued to be an effective arm out of the bullpen in the playoffs. Only two runs would come across to score against Sabrowski in five appearances (only one of which was earned), while he would allow four hits and three walks with eight strikeouts in 5.1 innings.

Once Sabrowski is able to return to action, expect him to be a regular presence coming out of the bullpen in relief this season for the Guardians.