Gibson scratched with stiff back; Swarzak to start

MINNEAPOLIS -- Right-hander Kyle Gibson was scratched from his scheduled start against the Indians on Wednesday with lower back stiffness, and fellow right-hander Anthony Swarzak will start in his place.

The announcement came after Minnesota's 8-2 loss to Cleveland on Tuesday night. Gibson tried to get loose on Tuesday, but he still felt back stiffness so he was ruled out for Wednesday's game. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said he doesn't believe it'll require a trip to the 15-day disabled list for Gibson, who is day to day.

"It got a little tight during his bullpen and he got through it, but it locked up," Gardenhire said. "He's receiving treatment and we'll go day to day with him."

It will give Swarzak his 29th career start and his first since Oct. 2, 2012, against the Blue Jays. Swarzak has been used exclusively in long relief since then, posting a 3.38 ERA in 143 2/3 innings over the last two seasons.

Swarzak is 6-17 with a 5.79 ERA in 28 career starts and 8-5 with a 3.67 ERA in 133 career relief appearances.

"I'm very excited," said Swarzak, who didn't find out until after Tuesday's game. "I'm ready. I've been waiting for an opportunity to start. This is a necessity thing for the organization. They need a starter tomorrow and I didn't pitch tonight. I'll always take that ball and that's what I'll do tomorrow."