Lackey held back by sore elbow
FRIDAY'S ANGELS REPORT
Pitcher probably won't make his spring debut until next week, but he says he's 'not real concerned' about the problem.
TEMPE, Ariz. -- Probable opening-day starter John Lackey, who had the lowest earned-run average (3.01) in the American League last season, has been slowed this week by a sore elbow and is not expected to make his Cactus League debut until late next week.
"I'm not real concerned about it," said Lackey, who went 19-9 in 2007. "It will be fine. I'm just taking it easy right now."
The right-hander said he felt fine entering camp but began to feel a little tightness about a week ago.
He was able to throw in the bullpen Thursday but was sore enough today that he wore a protective sleeve over his elbow and did not throw to the bases during fielding drills.
Lackey will attempt to throw again, probably to hitters during batting practice, Sunday or Monday and is penciled in to start Wednesday or Thursday.
"Some guys are trying to get their arms where they need to be coming off the off-season and need a little more work building up their stamina," Manager Mike Scioscia said. "John is just getting the spring-training [soreness] out of his arm and trying to get going. But he's fine."
Lackey's setback should not prevent him from pitching the March 31 season opener against Minnesota, but the Angels are being cautious with him.
With No. 2 starter Kelvim Escobar out until at least May because of a shoulder injury, they can't afford another injury to a starting pitcher.
mike.digiovanna@latimes.com
