Gio: Shoulder is fine, nothing to worry about
Lefty, removed in sixth inning vs. Angels, says he'll make next start
WASHINGTON -- Nationals left-hander Gio Gonzalez picked up a no-decision in Wednesday's 5-4 Nationals victory over the Angels. He left the game in the sixth inning because of tightness in his left shoulder.
Entering the sixth, Gonzalez had retired 10 consecutive batters and appeared to be on his way to a quality start. But before long, the Angels had a 2-1 lead and Gonzalez was on the hook for a loss.
Mike Trout walked to start the sixth. Albert Pujols followed and doubled down the third-base line, scoring Trout to tie the score at 1. Manager Matt Williams then took Gonzalez out of the game in favor of Aaron Barrett because Gonzalez was experiencing his shoulder problems. It was cold and Williams didn't want to take any chances. The injury is not considered serious and Gonzalez is expected to make his next start against the Phillies next week.
"After the fifth inning, it started getting a little colder. [The shoulder] felt a little tight," Gonzalez said. "Matt started seeing it in the sixth inning. I feel fine now. I did all my exercises. I feel great. Next question."