Happ Experiencing Forearm Discomfort

Jim Salisbury of Comcast SportsNet reported Saturday night that "Jay" Happ is dealing with some discomfort in his left forearm and could potentially miss his next start, Tuesday or Wednesday in Atlanta. Phils manager Charlie Manuel said they'd know more in the next couple of days.

This news could be serious trouble for the Phillies, who have enough question marks on their pitching staff already. Joe Blanton has been working his way back from an injured oblique. Kyle Kendrick has occupied Blanton's spot in the rotation and has posted a 17.47 ERA over his first two starts this season. JC Romero and Brad Lidge are also attempting to bounce back from injuries while recent tough outings by relievers David Herndon and Danys Baez have left each man with an ERA over 7.

The reserves at the triple A level are not anything to ease the concern. Drew Carpenter is 1-1 with a 5.79 ERA in 2 starts. Ryan Vogelsong is 0-1 with a 2.89 ERA in 2 starts, but he has walked 9 batters in 9 1/3 innings.

There had been talk of skipping Kendrick's next turn in the rotation because of the Phillies' off day coming up on Monday. That now looks unlikely, as Happ may be the one who gets skipped.

Back to Blanton...many reports have Joe Blanton making his first rehab start this coming Tuesday in Lakewood for the class A BlueClaws. PhoulBallz.com will keep you posted on that.

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