CINCINNATI (AP) -Reds ace Aaron Harang will miss his next scheduled turn in Cincinnati's rotation because of a sore lower back.
Harang (10-3), who has won his last five decisions, said his back stiffened on his second warmup toss to catcher David Ross before he went into the bullpen to warm up for Saturday's game. He faced five batters, getting three to fly out but walking Ryan Theriot and giving up a two-run homer to Derrek Lee.
"They thought it was better to take me out rather than take a chance on hurting my arm," said Harang, who's back has bothered him before, but never enough to keep him from pitching. "Hopefully, it's just one of those 48-hour tweaks."
An MRI exam Sunday didn't find any structural damage, team spokesman Rob Butcher said. Harang, who was scheduled to start against the Nationals on Thursday, won't travel with the team to Washington. He could pitch in Pittsburgh next weekend.
Hoosier Mick 
