The Rangers placed right-handed pitcher Tim Crabtree on the 15-day disabled list today, retroactive to April 15, with lower back problems.
Crabtree, 31, has not been able to pitch since Sunday due to pain and stiffness in his lower back. He had an MRI on Tuesday in Seattle and was examined by Rangers spine consultant Dr. Drew Dossett in Dallas on Wednesday. Crabtree was diagnosed to have two small disc herniations, which is believed to be a flareup of an existing condition.
The Rangers’ closer received an epideral injection in his back today, which is expected to alleviate the inflammation in his lower back. Crabtree will also be placed on a medication and rehab program. Dr. Dossett indicated that surgery is not necessary at this time. Crabtree is eligible to come off the disabled list on April 30 but it is unknown how long he might be sidelined.
The Rangers have purchased the contract of right-handed pitcher R.A. Dickey from Oklahoma of the Pacific Coast League to replace Crabtree on the active roster. Dickey will wear No. 51 and will be in uniform for tonight’s game against Oakland at The Ballpark in Arlington. Texas has transferred right-handed pitcher Dan Kolb from the 15-day DL to the 60-day disabled list to make room for Dickey on the 40-man roster.
Crabtree has four saves in as many opportunities so far this season in five appearances. He is 0-0 with a 5.79 era. He last pitched on Saturday in Oakland, earning a save in the Rangers’ 9-8 victory over the A’s.
Dickey, 26, is 2-0 with a 4.00 ERA in three starts for AAA Oklahoma this season. He leads the RedHawks in wins and innings (18). Dickey had a no-decision in his last start on Monday at Salt Lake City, allowing six hits and four runs in six innings with a walk and three strikeouts. Texas’ first-round selection in the 1996 First-Year Player Draft, Dickey is in his fifth year with the Texas organization.
Kolb has been on the 15-day disabled for the entire season with a strained muscle behind his right elbow, which he injured on March 15 in Spring Training. He is currently working out with the extended spring program in Port Charlotte, Florida, and has not yet begun to throw. The 60-day DL assignment is retroactive to opening day.