Padres News: Craig Stammen Forced to Exit Outing Early With Apparent Injury

The injury bug is hitting the Friars once again.

Just when a slew of Padres players were looking healthy again and ready to suit up, down goes one of the more impressive pitchers this Spring Training in Craig Stammen. In a 1-0 loss against the Kansas City Royals on Friday, the 38-year-old had to exit the game early clutching his shoulder. 

Kevin Acee of the San Diego-Union Tribune was the first to report this injury.

Craig Stammen just walked off the mound with an apparent injury.

A shoulder injury marred his 2022 season, but he had begun the spring strong.

— Kevin Acee (@sdutKevinAcee) March 10, 2023

"It was Craig Stammen's shoulder," said Acee. "He will be evaluated, but that's not good after his troubles last season and an offseason of rehab."

This is very disappointing for Padres fans to watch unfold as Stammen performed well for them when healthy, boasting a 3.06 ERA and providing great relief for starting pitchers. Even though he is on the older side of the league, his experience and willingness to still work with the rest of the group was appreciated by San Diego's front office.

Stammen had brought that same firepower into his first few appearances on the mound in Spring Training. His attitude has been excellent and he has only been looking to prove he can help the Friars acquire some hardware for the first time in franchise history.

Padres manager Bob Melvin talks after today’s game against the Reds about Craig Stammen’s performance, Fernando Tatis Jr. in right field, Jose Azocar’s early spring spring, and Brent Honeywell: pic.twitter.com/icdof3ApqW

— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) March 8, 2023

The veteran pitcher did invest a lot of time into making sure his shoulder was ready to go for this season. We'll keep you updated as the evaluations conclude and more information comes out.