Arrieta assigned to minors while getting in shape for debut

Published

ATLANTA (AP) Philadelphia pitcher Jake Arrieta has been assigned to Class A Clearwater while working into shape for his Phillies debut.

Since the 2015 NL Cy Young Award winner got a late start in spring training, finalizing a $75 million, three-year deal March 12, he will stay in Florida to pitch simulated games before making his first start for Philadelphia on April 8.

The Phillies will go with four starters until Arrieta is ready to pitch.

Arrieta has started two spring training games for the Phillies, giving up 10 hits, two homers and six runs in five innings. The 32-year-old went 14-10 with a 3.53 ERA last season with the Chicago Cubs.

Philadelphia opened the season Thursday against the Atlanta Braves.

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