Sanchez was removed from tonight's game in the fifth inning having suffered what the Tigers are calling a right pectoralis strain.
Anibal Sanchez was pulled from tonight's game with the Toronto Blue Jays after suffering an injury to his right side. The Tigers later announced Sanchez has a right pectoralis strain, with no word as to how long he may be out. He will be further evaluated on Saturday
Down 4-2 with two out in the fifth inning, Sanchez allowed a single to Munenori Kawasaki. Sanchez made one pick-off attempt, throwing hard to first base. At that point, Detroit's right-hander began to stretch and arch his back, in what looked to to be an attempt at loosing up. Once he grabbed his lower right side, catcher Alex Avila realized his pitcher was in some sort of distress and called time.
Manager Brad Ausmus and trainer Kevin Rand were immediately called to the mound. Taking no chances, Sanchez was removed from the game and replaced by Blaine Hardy.
Post game, manager Brad Ausmus addressed the Sanchez injury. He will head back to Detroit on Saturday for an MRI and a "more concrete" diagnosis.
Sanchez has spent one lengthy stint on the disabled list this season, missing the first half of May with a lacerated finger.
Sanchez was not having one of his better outings, though he received little help from the Tigers' shaky defense. In 5 2/3 innings against the Blue Jays, Sanchez allowed four runs, three earned, on ten hits, walking one and striking out three over 93 pitches.