palmer won 21 games in , and went 22–9, 158, 2.40 in , walking off with his first cy young award. his success was interrupted in when he was downed for eight weeks with elbow problems. palmer had lost seven games in a row by the time he went on the disabled list on june 20. he was diagnosed with an ulnar nerve injury and orthopedic surgeon robert kerlan prescribed rest, hot and cold water therapy and medication. surgery was considered, but palmer's pain lessened and he was able to return to play in august. he finished 7–12.