Phillies pitcher Matt Harrison, acquired from the Rangers in the Cole Hamels trade, has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star Telegram reports. Hypothyroidism is when a person’s thyroid gland doesn’t produce thyroid hormones. Harrison is hopeful the diagnosis will allow him to effectively deal with weight loss, back problems, and a loss of velocity.
On Friday, the Phillies placed Harrison on the 15-day disabled list with lower back inflammation. The lefty said he would’ve gone on the disabled list even if he hadn’t been traded, but added that he’s dealing with back stiffness as opposed to back pain.
Harrison, 29, has made a total of nine starts dating back to the start of the 2013 season. He had spinal fusion surgery in June of 2014 and made his return to the mound on July 8 this season. He made only three starts, posting a 6.75 ERA with a 6/5 K/BB ratio in 16 innings.
