Matt Garza injury: Cubs shut down right-hander ‘indefinitely’

The Chicago Cubs said Monday that they will shut down injured starter Matt Garza “indefinitely” because of a stress reaction in his right elbow, MLB.com Cubs beat writer Carrie Muskat reported on Twitter.

Matt Garza sidelined with stress reaction in back of right elbow. He’s out indefinitely. #Cubs

— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) August 6, 2012

Garza was the subject of many trade rumors leading up to last week’s deadline. The Reds, Rangers, Dodgers and even Red Sox were all reportedly interested in acquiring Garza. But now Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer told reporters that trading him is “the last thing” the Cubs are thinking of.

Hoyer on Garza’s status: “He’s likely to be a member of the Cubs in 2013… (Trading him) is the last thing we’re thinking of.”

— Paul Sullivan (@PWSullivan) August 6, 2012

On Sunday, Garza was sent back to Chicagoafter complaining of stiffness in his elbow during a bullpen session. Garza has not pitched since July 21, when he left a start in St. Louis after his triceps cramped up.

“He’s stiff today,” manager Dale Sveum said Sunday. “Nothing major, but he’s not going to be able to go on Tuesday. He threw two sides … Just back him off, just send him home to go see the doctor. Just being a little (cautious).”

Garza is 5-7 with a 3.91 ERA this season. He has 96 strikeouts in 103 2/3 innings.