GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — Cuban defector Aroldis Chapman has left the Cincinnati Reds’ spring training game with a stiff lower back.
The 22-year-old left-hander was scheduled to pitch four innings in relief of Bronson Arroyo against the Colorado Rockies. He entered Monday’s game in the sixth inning as planned, but left after only retiring five batters. He gave up two hits and two walks in his 1 2-3 innings.
Chapman is in the running for the fifth starter’s spot. He was having a sensational spring training before the back problem developed. He struck out five and allowed only one hit in three innings in his previous start against Milwaukee last Wednesday.
