New York Yankees right-hander Phil Hughes was forced to leave Game 3 of the ALCS against the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday with a stiff back, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney:
Phil Hughes left tonight’s game with a stiff back. If the Yankees climb back into this series, his availability would be an open question.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) October 17, 2012
Hughes was lifted in the fourth inning after giving up a solo home run to Delmon Young and walking Andy Dirks.
Hughes posted a 4.23 ERA and 1.27 WHIP while going 16-13 for the Yankees this season. He had a strong game in the Yankees’ 2-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles in Game 4 of the ALDS, allowing just one run in 6.2 innings.
From the poor play of Alex Rodriguez to Hughes’ injury, there’s been a lot of turmoil in the playoffs for a team that posted the best record in the American League this season (95-67). This is certainly not the scenario New York could’ve predicted heading into the postseason.
Regardless of whether the Yankees advance past the ALCS, it is assuring that Hughes has been solid in the playoffs after an up-and-down career. The 26-year-old hasn’t been spectacular for New York this season, but he has been a viable starter in the rotation, and that holds promise for the former first-round pick.
Check back here for the latest updates on Hughes’ injury.
Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com