Yankees place Andrew Miller on disabled list with forearm strain

Andrew Miller has had a notable amount success to this point in 2015 but the Yankees will have to temporarily find an alternative closing option. Miller has reportedly been experiencing tightness and according to ESPN's Wallace Matthews, New York placed Miller on the disabled list with an injury to a muscle to his forearm.

Miller, 30, has posted a 1.03 ERA and 1.93 FIP in 26.1 innings to this point in 2015. He has also saved 17 contests and has thrived as the Yankees' closer. Miller first reported pain after pitching on Tuesday night, John Munson of NJ.com adds, but had previously been plagued by the injury.

New York will not have Miller throw for 7-10 days and will then determine its options. Although Miller's flexor mass muscle was injured, his ulnar collateral ligament was not affected, according to Munson, and as a result Tommy John surgery is not expected to be necessary.

With Miller temporarily out, the Yankees are expected to turn to Dellin Betances to close games. In 32.1 innings, Betances has thrived pitching late in games, posting a minuscule 0.28 ERA and 1.06 FIP. Although Betances could thrive as the club's closer, his success and Miller's dominance have collectively contributed to the Yankees' success through the first two months of the season.

Miller signed a four-year, $36 million deal with New York in the offseason and was effective enough early to be named the closer. Yankees Manager Joe Girardi was initially hesitant to name Miller the closer but eventually expressed confidence in him to close games.

The Yankees have not yet announced who will take Miller's spot on the 25-man roster but lefty relievers Tyler Webb and James Pazos could be candidates to be promoted. While losing Miller takes away left-handed depth, the Yankees have been in pursuit of right-handed relief help and can turn to Jose Ramirez or Nick Rumbelow until Miller returns.