Mets shut down Vic Black for a few days, righty could hit disabled list

The Mets announced this afternoon that relief pitcher Vic Black will be shut down for a few days as he attempts to come back from shoulder soreness. The 26-year-old has not pitched since last week, though MRI results on his shoulder came back clean. Last September, Black had a strained rotator cuff.

Acquired by the Mets along with Dilson Herrera in the trade that sent Marlon Byrd and John Buck to the Pirates late in the 2013 season, Black has a 2.96 ERA and 3.67 FIP in 51.2 major league innings in his career. He has traditionally struggled with walks, though he has been effective in spite of that issue.

With Opening Day coming up sooner than later, it's possible that Black will begin the season on the disabled list. Coming into spring training, Black was one of several pitchers who figured to be in the team's bullpen to start the season. With Josh Edgin out for the year after having Tommy John surgery, Black would join him and Bobby Parnell on the DL if he starts the year there.