What It Means:

Keuchel is merely battling inflammation, which is relieving news for the 28 year-old southpaw. However, he still needs to strengthen his shoulder prior to resuming a throwing program, and he'll remain shut down through this weekend at a minimum. This news seems to suggest that Keuchel has a decent chance to return this month, though. He owns a poor 4.55 ERA in 168 innings pitched this season.

Keuchel's 3.55 xFIP is a point lower than his ERA, suggesting he's been unlucky on the mound this year. His 20.5 strikeout percentage is just below league average (21.0 percent).