QUOTE (Chisoxfn @ May 19, 2012 -> 08:23 PM)
The question is how long was it bothering him for? Is it something that happened and had to do with his poor play? The optimist in me hopes that is the case. His swing looked really good in spring (I realize its spring) but the swing looked good, which is what I care about (vs. results).
I can't say for certain, but I'm going to guess it's been a whole year thing coming to a head now.
He put some good swings on the ball earlier in the year but then the strikeouts started. He has never, ever piled up the strikeouts like he has this year...and my guess is that's related to his back...not able to get down and rotate fully on the ball strongly.