CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Phillies right-hander David Hernandez said there is no reason to be alarmed.
But Hernandez has not pitched since March 1 because of right triceps tendinitis. It might not be an issue, except the Phillies are looking for a closer since trading Ken Giles in December. Hernandez missed the entire 2014 season following Tommy John surgery.
"More of a day-to-day thing," general manager Matt Klentak said Tuesday evening.
The Phillies signed Hernandez to a one-year, $3.9 million contract in December. He was the only free agent they signed to a Major League contract in the offseason, giving him front-runner status to be the Phillies' closer.
Hernandez said on Tuesday afternoon that he has no shoulder or elbow injury.
"We're good," Hernandez said. "I'm on schedule."
• Altherr out 4-6 months
The 30-year-old righty, who is 25-35 with a 4.15 ERA over six seasons, is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday.
"Just taking it slow," Hernandez said. "I'm just trying to manage my appearances."
Non-roster invitees Andrew Bailey, Edward Mujica, Ernesto Frieri and James Russell also are competing to be in the back of the Phillies' bullpen. Bailey threw a scoreless inning on Tuesday in a 4-2 victory over the Pirates. He has thrown two scoreless frames this spring.
Mujica and Russell each have thrown one scoreless inning, while Frieri has allowed three runs in 2 2/3 innings.