What happened: Martin Perez will be placed on the injured list with lower back inflammation. Walt Weiss provided the update Thursday, which surfaces after Perez threw just 79 pitches in his previous start without obvious signs of struggle.

Why it matters: The injury puts his availability for the upcoming postseason in serious doubt. The move could open a playoff roster spot for JR Ritchie.

By the numbers: Perez has logged 142 innings this season, posting a 3.04 ERA.

What to watch: If the move is backdated to Monday, he would not be eligible to return until Game 3 of the NLDS.

Sources