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by J.R.
Indians' Closer Chris Perez Has Shoulder Strain
GOODYEAR, Ariz. March 1, 2013 (AP)
Indians All-Star closer Chris Perez could be sidelined one month because of a strained shoulder.
Perez, who saved 39 games last season, will not throw for the next week to 10 days. Once he resumes his program, the Indians estimate he will be pitching in games in three or four weeks.
It is the second straight spring training Perez has been injured. Last year, he was sidelined with a pulled side muscle.
The injury will prevent Perez from playing for the United States in the World Baseball Classic.
The right-hander has 98 saves during the past three seasons. Perez was involved in trade rumors during the offseason, but said he's excited about playing for new Indians manager Terry Francona.