Nolan Ryan’s Return Delayed; He’ll Miss Start Against Angels

The eagerly awaited return of Nolan Ryan to the pitching mound for the struggling Texas Rangers will be delayed an additional six days, team officials say.

Ryan had been placed on the 15-day disabled list and the team originally planned to bring him off the list in time to start next Saturday night against the Angels.

But Ryan had more problems with his back spasms Monday while pitching during a 15-minute session at Arlington Stadium.

“When Nolan pitches again, I want him to feel confident this has been taken care of,” Manager Bobby Valentine said. “I don’t want him to try to pitch through it and have it be a continuing situation.”

A back injury is something he has not endured before, Ryan said. He added that he is frustrated at not being able to help.

The Rangers said Ryan will be transferred to the 21-day disabled list, making him eligible to return on June 8.