Paxton was removed from Thursday's start due to lower back stiffness, TJ Cotterill of The Tacoma News Tribune reports.

EDGE Analysis

Considering Paxton's injury history, this news comes as a major relief. The lefty exited Thursday's start after recording just two outs and never looked himself as he was tagged for two home runs. Fortunately, the upcoming All-Star break will provide Paxton some extra time to get treatment and enter the second half in good health.