Randy Johnson has herniated back disc

PHOENIX, June 19 (UPI) -- The Arizona Diamondbacks disclosed Tuesday that five-time Cy Young Award winning pitcher Randy Johnson has a herniated disc in his back.

Johnson was placed on the 15-day disabled list Friday due to what was termed as tightness in his buttocks. After an MRI Monday, it was confirmed by his physician, Dr. Robert Watkins, that he has herniated the same disc which he had operated on last October when he was with the New York Yankees.

Johnson has been given the clearance to resume pitching and will try to work through the problem.

Johnson, 43, has a 4-2 record with a 3.52 ERA this season with Arizona. He has struck out 70, while walking only 11 in his first nine starts. He began the season on the disabled list.