Carl Crawford to Begin Extended Spring Training Stint

Carl Crawford is expecting to take a large step toward rejoining the Boston Red Sox this week.  According to Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal, Crawford is flying back to Florida today and is “more than likely” to play in his first extended spring training contest on Tuesday.  Crawford has been recovering from wrist surgery and a recent setback involving discomfort in his elbow.

Red Sox fans were holding their breath last week as it was reported that Crawford was returning to Boston to have his elbow examined.  Crawford had experienced discomfort in his arm, but it was determined to be a minor ailment; something that could be cured with a reduced throwing routine.

The discomfort has only impacted Crawford’s throwing; he’s still been able to take his cuts in the batting cage.  In fact, Crawford was taking batting practice yesterday at Fenway Park during the Red Sox afternoon contest against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Crawford will continue to abstain from throwing for another “week or so”, but is expected to start playing in extended spring training games tomorrow.

Crawford is understandably excited to get back on the field, as the 30-year-old would like to prove his true value after last year’s disastrous season.  With the extended absence of fellow outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox Nation is counting on Crawford to return to pre-2011 form when he rejoins the club.

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