Toronto Blue Jays manager John Farrell (L) watches pitcher Ricky Romero throw during the third inning of their American League baseball game against the New York Yankees in Toronto September 29, 2012.MIKE CASSESE/Reuters
Toronto Blue Jays starter Ricky Romero was pulled from Saturday's game against New York after experiencing discomfort in his left knee.
Romero appeared to be in pain after throwing a pitch to Andruw Jones that was high and away. The Toronto southpaw hopped a few times on the mound and appeared to be favouring his left side.
The precautionary move was made after the third inning with the visiting Yankees holding a 2-1 lead. Romero was replaced by Canadian right-hander Shawn Hill.
Blue Jays manager John Farrell came out to the mound with a team trainer in the top of the third inning to talk with Romero, who threw a few warmup pitches before deciding to stay in the game. Romero then struck out Jones and got Eduardo Nunez on a lineout.
It has been a disappointing season for Romero, who entered play with a 9-14 record and 5.76 earned-run average.
On Saturday, he allowed two earned runs, six hits and two walks. Romero had three strikeouts and threw 38 of his 63 pitches for strikes.