Robbie Ray leaves minor league start with blister

Robbie Ray was lifted from his start for Triple-A Toledo just two pitches into the fifth inning after the Mud Hens' training staff discovered a blister on his finger. John Wagner of the Toledo Blade reported the news from the press box, but seems to think that the move was just a precaution.

Injury to Ray didn't appear serious. He looked at finger, then seemed ready to go back to work. Certainly wasn't in pain. #Tigers

— JWagnerBlade (@jwagnerblade) June 1, 2014

Ray had allowed five runs (three earned) on eight hits in his first four innings of work. He had four strikeouts and just one walk. This was Ray's second start since the Tigers optioned him to Toledo. He gave up three runs (two earned) in just 3 1/3 innings on May 27th.

The injury news will put any "Drew Smyly to the bullpen" talks to a halt in the near future. Smyly has struggled lately, allowing nine runs on 15 hits in just seven innings in his last two starts. Prior to that, he gave up a career high five walks in a start against the Cleveland Indians.