Giants’ Will Smith exits game, set for MRI after again feeling pain in elbow

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- With just eight days until they break camp, the Giants suffered a potentially big blow to their bullpen.

Will Smith was pulled in the eighth inning of Monday's game at Camelback Ranch after feeling some pain in his left elbow. Smith was making his second appearance of the spring. He had previously missed about a month with left elbow irritation.

"It's the same feeling as last time," Smith said. "We're just (being cautious) and I'll get it checked out. Hopefully it's nothing. Hopefully I just need more rest and treatment. We'll find out ... Obviously I'm trying not to panic, but you want to feel as good as you do all the time. I wouldn't say I'm panicking by any means, but you'd like to feel good."

With our All Access Daily newsletter, stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams!

Given the date, it seems a lock that Smith will open the season on the disabled list. He was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday evening to determine the severity of the irritation, but regardless, the Giants will shut him down for a period and then slowly build his arm back up. Smith went through a similar process at the start of camp, keeping him out of games until March 17.

"It's not good at this time (of spring)," manager Bruce Bochy said. "(You're hoping) for the best news you can get. That's what you're hoping for."

Smith was supposed to be the main left-hander in the late innings. If he misses significant time, the Giants will turn to Josh Osich and Steven Okert, who has not given up a run this spring. Ty Blach is also an option for the bullpen, and the Giants could use newcomers Michael Roth and Kraig Sitton, as well.