No one should be surprised by Boston Red Sox latest injury

Hopefully, the Boston Red Sox were not expecting James Paxton to have an impact on the major league roster this season.

Paxton was finally set to make his 2022 debut as he continued to work his way back from Tommy John surgery as he was slated to pitch in the Florida Complex League on Thursday. That return lasted for all of two batters as he was removed from the game due to injury.

Boston Red Sox pitcher James Paxton injured yet again

Although nothing is officially known at this point, it does not sound good for Paxton. According to an eyewitness, Paxton was pointing to the underside of his left forearm before leaving the game. He is likely to undergo several tests before an official diagnosis is made.

However, it does not seem to be a positive development for Paxton making his return this season. Even if he is sidelined for a week or two, that would make a major league return questionable. While the Red Sox are essentially out of the running for a playoff berth this year, having Paxton return would have helped the franchise determine whether or not to exercise a pair of $13 million team options. Although both are likely to be declined if he is out for a significant period, Paxton does have a $4 million player option for 2023, making it likely that he will remain with the organization next year.

In theory, a healthy Paxton would be a boon for the Red Sox rotation. He has a lifetime 3.59 ERA and a 1.212 WHiP over his 754.2 innings, striking out 831 batters with 231 walks. Those numbers would be perfect for a middle of the rotation arm, something that the Red Sox desperately need. However, he has just six appearances at the major league level over the past three years and has surpassed 150 innings just twice. He needs to be on the mound to be effective.

James Paxton has left his rehab start due to injury. It is yet another setback for the oft-injured Boston Red Sox pitcher.