Red Sox Place Buchholz on DL with Strained Back
By Editorial Staff
The Boston Red Sox have placed starter Clay Buchholz on the 15 day disabled list with a strained lower back. The move is retroactive to June 17th.
Buchholz’s first felt discomfort during his last start Thursday night against the Rays. He only was able to complete 5 innings and throw 81 pitches before leaving the game.
The 26 year old stated that he wanted to remove himself before his back was more seriously injured. He was hoping not to have to miss an extended period of time, but the Red Sox do not want Buchholz’s back to be an issue later in the year.
"“That’s the road we’re trying to take with it,” Buchholz said Sunday. “Hopefully knock it out now and not have to worry about it in September or October.”"
Buchholz has been solid this year for the Sox, maintaining an ERA of 3.48 to go along with his 1.29 WHIP.
Andrew Miller, scheduled to make Monday’s start against the Padres, has been added to Boston’s roster and will fill in for Buchholz. Miller has pitched well for the club’s Triple-A squad this season, holding an ERA of 2.47 with 8.4 SO/9.
Boston acquired Miller in an offseason trade with the Marlins.
Florida had obtained the left hander from the Tigers in 2007 as a part of the blockbuster trade that sent Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera to Detroit. Miller came into that season ranked the 10th best prospect by Baseball America, but he wasn’t able to find success at the major league level.
Boston hopes that Monday will be a step in the right direction for Miller, as they hope he can finally begin reaching his full potential. It certainly won’t hurt to be facing San Diego, one of the league’s worst offenses.