CINCINNATI — Los Angeles Angels rookie right-hander George Klassen left Saturday’s 7-3 loss to Cincinnati in the third inning because of a bruised nail on his right index finger.
Klassen, making just his second big league appearance, exited with the Angels trailing 5-1 after allowing five runs, five hits and five walks and two strikeouts. He threw 72 pitches and allowed a solo homer to Spencer Steer.
Angels manager Kurt Suzuki said pitching coach Mike Maddux noticed during a mound visit that Klassen was looking at the finger.
“I think he’s going to be OK,” Suzuki said. “It probably doesn’t feel great with the fingernail like that. I don’t think he’s going to miss time for it.”
Klassen said the nail began bothering him during the first inning. A similar issue occurred last year in the minor leagues.
“We’re taking care of it in the training room,” he said. “Still pretty inexcusable results. Put the bullpen in a tough spot.”
Klassen did not get a decision in his major league debut on April 5 against Seattle. He was the first Angels player to debut as a starter since left-hander Mitch Farris last Sept. 2 at Kansas City.
Los Angeles acquired the former sixth-round pick in the amateur draft choice from Philadelphia along with left-hander Sam Aldegheri for right-hander Carlos Estévez on July 27, 2024.