ARLINGTON, Texas — Rangers closer Frank Francisco was put on the 15-day disabled list Saturday, even after completing a bullpen session in which he felt no pain.
Francisco hasn’t pitched since May 6 because of right biceps tendinitis, but went into Saturday still tied for the AL lead with nine saves.
After playing catch the previous two days, Francisco threw a 15-minute bullpen session Saturday. The right-hander said he didn’t feel any pain, but also didn’t feel sharp.
“Kind of playing on the cautious side, we’re going to have him throw another bullpen Monday and possibly one more throwing session after that,” general manager Jon Daniels said. “Take the perspective of we have five months to go, he’s an important part of our bullpen, let’s have him all but three more games of it.”
Francisco has made 25 consecutive scoreless appearances. His 14 1/3 scoreless innings to begin this season set a team mark.
Dice-K could be back soon.
Daisuke Matsuzaka could be back on the mound for the Boston Red Sox later this week.
Manager Terry Francona also said first baseman Kevin Youkilis will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Pawtucket on Monday.
• David Ortiz will miss the final two games of the road trip for rest. He will be back for the series against Toronto on Tuesday.
Olsen heading to DL.
Washington Nationals starter Scott Olsen is headed to the disabled list with tendinitis in his throwing shoulder.
The left-hander allowed six runs and nine hits over five innings in an 8-5 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of a doubleheader.
Quentin sidelined.
White Sox outfielder Carlos Quentin was scratched from the lineup for Chicago’s game against the Blue Jays with the sore left heel.
The Associated Press
