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Yankees' Corey Kluber exits start vs. Blue Jays with shoulder tightness

New York Yankees starter Corey Kluber, shown April 9, 2021, was removed from his start Tuesday night after just three innings. File Photo by Steven J. Nesius/UPI
New York Yankees starter Corey Kluber, shown April 9, 2021, was removed from his start Tuesday night after just three innings. File Photo by Steven J. Nesius/UPI | License Photo

May 25 (UPI) -- New York Yankees right-hander Corey Kluber was removed from his start against the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday night after just three innings because of shoulder tightness in his throwing arm.

The 35-year-old Kluber, who has worked his way back from injuries to serve as the Yankees' No. 2 starter, received a physical exam from team trainers after exiting New York's 6-2 loss. According to the club, he will undergo further evaluation -- including an MRI -- on Wednesday.

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"There is always concern when a starting pitcher comes out like that," Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters. "His physical exam was pretty good tonight. Hopefully, we'll get some answers tomorrow, but it was just something he couldn't work through."

Kluber said his arm felt "heavy" during his start against the Blue Jays. He also said the injury feels different than last year's shoulder tear.

"It's frustrating," the veteran pitcher said.

The two-time American League Cy Young Award winner threw 58 pitches in the outing. He allowed two runs, striking out five and walking three.

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While playing for the Cleveland Indians, Kluber's 2019 season ended when he was hit on the forearm by a comebacker. His debut for the Texas Rangers in 2020 lasted only one inning before he tore a muscle in his right shoulder.

Despite the extended layoff, Kluber entered Tuesday with a 4-2 record and 2.86 ERA.

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