Jon Lester Placed on DL with Strained Back
By Editorial Staff
A day after being removed from his start, Jon Lester has landed on the disabled list with a strained muscle in his back.
Lester held the Blue Jays hitless over his 4 innings of work last night. The 27 year old walked 1 and struck out 5 while throwing 50 pitches, a line any starting pitcher would take.
But Lester was done after the 4th, complaining of discomfort in his back. Manager Terry Francona told reporters after the game that the pain was an issue for Lester throughout the frame.
The right hander underwent an MRI Wednesday, but the Sox had already decided to place their ace on the DL.
"“We were actually planning on possibly skipping him on Sunday anyway and having him come out of the chute last just because of the load he will carry,” said Francona. “This kind of makes this a no brainer. I already talked to him today. He didn’t put up much of a fight so I think it’s the right thing to do.”"
While this is certainly a blow for Boston, they don’t expect Lester to be out very long. They are hoping he can return the day he’s eligible, July 22nd.
Boston recalled right hander Scott Atchison from Triple-A to fill Lester’s roster spot. The Red Sox haven’t announced who will replace Lester in their rotation, but current long man Alfredo Aceves seems the likely choice.
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