Tillman could begin season on disabled list
The Baltimore Orioles are going to have to find a new Opening Day starter.
After three consecutive season-opening starts for right-hander Chris Tillman, the 28-year-old could begin 2017 on the disabled list after receiving a platelet-rich plasma injection to help with lingering shoulder issues this past December, according to the Baltimore Sun's Eduardo A. Encina.
Tillman could start the regular season on the disabled list but still pitch in the team's fifth game, according to MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli, who writes that it would be tough for him to crack the team's rotation if he has any more setbacks.
If Tillman begins the season on the DL, the Orioles would need to find a starter to join Kevin Gausman, Dylan Bundy, Wade Miley, and Ubaldo Jimenez in the team's rotation.
Mike Wright, Tyler Wilson, and Logan Verrett are among the options who could fill in.
An eight-year veteran, Tillman matched his career high in wins last season, posting a 16-6 record with a 3.77 ERA during 172 innings.
Over the course of his career, Tillman owns a 72-48 record with a 4.13 ERA and 1.31 WHIP during 179 starts.