Cliff Lee Strains Muscle, Says He's "Perfectly Fine"
CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) - Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cliff Lee says a side muscle strain is the reason his first bullpen session lasted just eight pitches a week ago.
He says Monday that he's ``perfectly fine'' now and the strain under his left armpit is ``not really a major issue.'' Lee completed his next two pitching sessions last week, and also took part in fielding practice during the first week of training camp.
Lee, who led the Texas Rangers to the World Series last season, signed a five-year, $120 million contract with the Phillies as a free agent in December. He says he felt discomfort while playing catch last month in Arkansas. When he reported to camp last Tuesday, he was limited to eight pitches.
News of Lee's offseason injury was first reported Sunday night by The Philadelphia Inquirer.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
