Brent Suter, a relief pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, was placed on the injured list with a partially torn shoulder muscle.

Cincinnati Reds shortstop Brent Suter was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Saturday with a partially torn muscle in the back of his left shoulder. This injury comes at a crucial time for the team as they push for a playoff spot.

Suter expects to be back in about six weeks, but hopes to return sooner, drawing optimism from his previous quick recovery from a similar injury. He initially expressed disappointment at the news, but appreciated the support of his teammates.

Throughout this season, the 34-year-old left-hander has maintained a 3.68 ERA in 51 1/2 innings, making him a reliable option in the bullpen, according to manager David Bell.

The Reds are currently three games back in the race for the final NL wild-card spot.

Losing Suter to injury is a setback for the team, admitted Bell, who emphasized Suter’s crucial role.

Suter first felt discomfort in his lats during warmups before a recent game against Washington. Despite trying to continue pitching, he was eventually pulled from the game after an MRI revealed a partial tear in his teres major muscle.

Reflecting on the situation, Suter acknowledged the potential severity of the injury throw and expressed gratitude for the decision to take him out of the game when they did.