The Boston Red Sox have placed starter John Lackey on the 15 day disabled list with a right elbow strain.
Boston made the decision last night, but details did not come out until after the Sox win over the Baltimore Orioles.
Lackey apparently is not happy with the team’s decision. He’s well known for being a bull dog, often not wanting to exit games.
Lackey had a memorable confrontation with former manager Mike Scioscia during a 2009 ALCS game. The righty was obviously agitated as Scioscia made his walk to the mound. He was caught on camera expressing his disbelief, claiming that the game was his.
Current manager Terry Francona spoke with ESPNBoston to sum up the situation.
"“He’s more than willing to pitch through anything. He said he’s pitched through this before, and worse. But it’s May, not September. If we don’t do something now it might not get better. We talked with the medical staff. I don’t think he’s too happy about it. He’s such a competitor. But it’s the right thing to do.”"
The Red Sox hope that some time off will allow Lackey to return resembling the pitcher the team thought deserved $82.5 million over 5 years.
Tim Wakefield will take the mound tonight in Lackey’s absence when the Sox finish up their two game series with the O’s.