Elbow injury sidelines Angels' John Lackey

TEMPE, Ariz. -- The Angels have shut down ace John Lackey because of elbow tightness, an injury that will knock the right-hander out of Friday's scheduled exhibition start and could jeopardize his opening-day start against the Oakland Athletics on April 6.

Lackey opened the 2008 season on the disabled list because of biceps tendinitis, but he said he didn't believe this injury is as serious. He did not undergo an MRI test and has been undergoing treatment since last pitching against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

We will have more information on Lackey's injury later this morning at www.latimes.com/sports

-- Mike DiGiovanna

Photo: John Lackey pitches against the Colorado Rockies during a spring training game on March 2. Credit: Elaine Thompson / Associated Press