Angels' Canning suffering from 'chronic changes to UCL'

Los Angeles Angels right-hander Griffin Canning underwent an MRI after experiencing elbow discomfort Thursday, and the results showed chronic changes to the pitcher's ulnar collateral ligament as well as acute joint irritation, according to a team release.

Later, Canning described the injury as "normal wear and tear," according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

The 23-year-old is scheduled to undergo further assessments.

Canning was expected to break camp as one of the club's top starters. Over 18 games during his rookie campaign last year, he authored a 4.58 ERA and 4.37 FIP in 90 1/3 innings.

The former second-round pick had made one spring appearance, allowing one walk and no hits or runs over two innings of work.