Anthony DeSclafani has a sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow and the Cincinnati Reds have shut him down for at least four weeks.

DeSclafani, 26, was diagnosed by team medical director Dr. Timothy Kremchek at his private practice back in Cincinnati on Monday.

"There is a sense of relief that it's not (completely) torn and it's something we're able to address going forward," Dick Williams said. "It's always scary when you start having issues with that ligament. It's something you've got to be real careful with going forward."

DeSclafani first reported elbow soreness two weeks ago. He was shut down for three days, but the soreness went away and he was cleared to resume throwing. He completed two bullpen sessions, but the soreness returned after the second one.