Joe Nathan was shut down yesterday and not allowed to participate in intrasquad games, but Nathan and the Texas Rangers said it was no big deal.  Nathan said he was sidelined for precautionary reasons.  Even if that's the case, it's concerning that players are only a week into spring since very one reported and Nathan is already being given rest.

Jon Heyman of CBS Sports had the note yesterday afternoon:

Joe Nathan said only sidelined for precautionary reasons, due to age, history and long spring. #rangers
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) February 21, 2013

Last season, Nathan experienced some arm fatigue but did not land on the DL at all.  He has been healthy for the most part since recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2010.

The Rangers grabbed Nathan as a free agent after the 2011 season.  He had spent the previous seven seasons in Minnesota with the Twins.  Nathan has been a solid closer throughout his career, and the Rangers intend to keep using him in that role.

Last year, Nathan appeared in 66 games and had 37 saves.  He posted a 2.80 ERA.  In his career, Nathan is just two saves away from the 300 milestone.  He also has a career 2.87 ERA.
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