Athletics Injury Report: Frankie Montas' Shoulder Inflammation A Minimal Issue, Won't Damage Trade Value

An MRI on A's ace Frankie Montas' ailing right shoulder revealed no structural damage and he will miss his scheduled start this Saturday vs. the Astros. 

Frankie Montas Injury Update

The shoulder inflammation will only require a short absence, according to the ProBaseballDocs, and Montas would only face the minimum IL stay if he needs one at all. 

Montas will receive a cortisone injection to help ease the shoulder soreness and lubricate the healing process. 

The issue should resolve itself soon and is unlikely to linger once Montas returns, the Docs say. 

The 29-year-old is tentatively slated to face the Astros on Friday, July 15, 12 days since he left his start after clocking lower-than-average velocity in one inning. 

The start could be moved up if he shows swift progress over the next week. 

Montas is one of the top starting pitchers likely to be traded between now and the MLB trade deadline on August 2. 

The injury is unlikely to deter teams who would otherwise be interested in the sixth-year starter. 

Despite a league-leading nine losses the 6'2" righty has shown elite stuff once again, striking out 100 batters with a 3.26 ERA and 1.086 WHIP in 96.2 IP.

Montas is leading the AL in starts for the second season in a row, posting 17 with 10 qualifying as quality starts.