Tony Barnette sidelined with oblique strain

Texas Rangers righthanded reliever Tony Barnette is sidelined due to an oblique strain, per the beat guys on Twitter, who say that the Rangers are trying to be conservative with him, and that there is no timetable for his return.

Barnette hasn't pitched since last Sunday, September 4, and this would explain why he hasn't pitched.  Barnette has been a valuable piece of the Rangers' bullpen this season, and the team will need him for the playoffs.  With the division close to being locked up and an expanded roster for September, it makes sense for the team to rest him and make sure he gets healthy.