A’s starter A.J. Puk sidelined with left shoulder strain

The Oakland Athletics have placed top prospect A.J. Puk on the 10-day injured list with a shoulder strain. Puk traveled to Los Angeles to meet with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, according to beat writer Susan Slusser. Daniel Mengden will replace him in the A’s starting rotation for the time-being.

The news comes following Jesus Luzardo’s return to the team after testing positive for Covid-19. He has not rejoined the rotation, and manager Bob Melvin has no plans on rushing him back with Puk now out, according to Slusser.

Puk appeared in 10 games last season for the A’s as a reliever, giving up four earned runs over 11 ¹⁄₃ innings. Puk previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018, and the plan was to have an innings limit this season. The shortened season opened the door for a chance to open him up over 60 games, but this shoulder injury raises concerns given his medical history.