Johnson Objects, but Sits Out Start

Over his vehement objections, Randy Johnson missed his first scheduled start in nearly two years on Wednesday night.

A lower back strain prevented the 38-year-old left-hander from going to the mound in an attempt to go 7-0. Todd Stottlemyre started in Johnson’s place in the second game of a three-game series against the New York Mets at Phoenix.

“Last night Randy initially was adamant that he was going to pitch today,” Manager Bob Brenly said before Wednesday night’s game, “but we all feel there’s not enough upside to risk losing him for an extended period of time.”

Johnson first reported stiffness in his lower back on Saturday, the morning after his last start in Florida, when he tied a major league record he already shared by going 6-0 in April.

The condition worsened Sunday, and he was unable to throw his scheduled side session on Monday. He said the back had improved considerably after treatment on Tuesday night.

Johnson was overruled by Brenly, team physician Dr. Michael Lee, pitching coach Chuck Kniffin and trainer Paul Lessard.

“You know the phrase ‘If looks could kill?’” Lessard said. “Well, there’d be four dead people here.”

St. Louis Cardinal right-hander Garrett Stephenson was scratched from his scheduled start because of lingering concerns that he has not fully recovered from a lower back injury....Texas Ranger right-hander Jeff Zimmerman underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow. The Rangers hope Zimmerman will be able to begin a throwing program in three weeks.... The Pittsburgh Pirates purchased the contract of right-hander Josias Manzanillo from triple-A Nashville and designated infielder Mendy Lopez for assignment.... Pitcher Bryan Rekar was sent outright to triple-A Omaha by the Kansas City Royals, who purchased the contract of catcher Juan Brito.... The Detroit Tigers will put closer Matt Anderson on the 15-day disabled list today with a stiff shoulder.... The Cardinals, who already have five starting pitchers on the disabled list, are expected to add injured reliever Steve Kline to the list because of a triceps injury....Florida Marlin right-hander Josh Beckett, who has a large blister on the middle finger of his pitching hand, was put on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to Monday.