The left-hander struck out 12 in 6 1/3 dominant innings Tuesday in a win over the Seattle Mariners. He allowed two runs - one was inherited - and his season ERA is now 2.46, Incredibly, he threw 26 of 27 first-pitch strikes. Sanchez left the field to a standing ovation.

Now that the club knows its ace will be sidelined perhaps well into next season, it can adjust for now and plan accordingly for later.