Morrow leaves in 1st inning with side strain

TORONTO (AP) Blue Jays right-hander Brandon Morrow left Monday night's game against Washington after just nine pitches because of a strained muscle in his left side.

After giving up a leadoff double, Morrow motioned for the trainer after missing low on a 1-1 pitch to Bryce Harper, the second hitter of the game. Following a brief discussion involving manager John Farrell, Morrow walked off the field and down the steps to the clubhouse.

Chad Beck came on to replace Morrow, who also left a May 30 start against Baltimore after he was struck on the right shin by a batted ball.

Morrow came in having won three of his past four starts, a stretch that has seen him throw two shutouts. The former first-round pick has thrown three shutouts this season.

Updated June 11, 2012