Yimi Garcia has allowed nine hits and three runs in 8 1/3 innings out of the Dodgers’ bullpen this season. (John McCoy/Staff photographer)

DENVER — Yimi Garcia was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday after the pitcher was forced to leave the Dodgers’ 7-5 loss Friday with a sore right biceps muscle. Zach Lee will replace him in the bullpen, an unconventional move if only because Lee has pitched four times out of the bullpen in 129 professional games.

But Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was wary of another long game for his staff at Coors Field. In case of a short start by Kenta Maeda today or Alex Wood tomorrow, Lee can fill the long reliever’s role.

“You just never know what you can get into at this ballpark,” Roberts said.

Lee was 3-0 in three starts at Triple-A Oklahoma City this year, allowing three runs in 17 ⅓ innings.

Garcia said he felt a little less concerned about his injury Saturday compared to his initial fears. But his right arm is still asleep from the top of his bicep to his wrist. He’s been told not to throw for two days and will undergo massage therapy and theraputic laser treatment in the meantime.

Garcia faced four batters in the seventh inning Friday. He was able to throw his fastball 93-95 mph to the first batter he faced, but only 90-92 to the final batter.

The Dodgers’ bullpen will get a boost on Monday from the return of right-hander Louis Coleman, who is on the bereavement list.