Detroit, MI (SportsNetwork.com) - The Detroit Tigers have placed closer Joe Nathan on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right elbow.
Nathan recorded the final out of Monday's season opener to pick up his first save of the season in a 4-0 Tigers win over Minnesota. According to club president Dave Dombrowski, Nathan had been complaining about his elbow over the past week so they are giving him time to get healthy.
"He's had a tender elbow," said Dombrowski. "We'll give him some time to rest it and hopefully that will help him."
The Tigers will recalled pitcher Blaine Hardy from Triple-A Toledo to take the roster spot.
Joakim Soria is expected to claim the closer duties for the Tigers with Nathan on the shelf.
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