Boston Red Sox will not see James Paxton this season

So much for the Boston Red Sox hopes that James Paxton would be a boost to the rotation down the stretch.

Paxton had lasted for all of two batters in his first rehab appearance in the Florida Complex League. He then pointed to the underside of his left forearm before leaving the game, his rehab stint on hold.

Boston Red Sox make James Paxton decision official

Considering that there are approximately six weeks left in the season at this point, it was likely that Paxton was done for the year. Even if his injury turned out to be minor, it was simply a matter of how much time was left. Being sidelined for two or three weeks would essentially derail any attempts to return to the mound in the majors this year.

That has proved to be the case. Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe reported that Paxton suffered a Grade Two tear in his left lat muscle and has been shut down for the season. Considering his injury history, this should not be much of a surprise.

It is also likely that Paxton will be back with the Red Sox next season. Although they should turn down a pair of $13 million team options that have to be triggered at once, Paxton does have a $4 million player option. Since he has faced two batters since April 2021, there is no reason why he should expect to receive a better deal on the open market.

Maybe Paxton can help the Red Sox in 2023. In theory, having Paxton and Chris Sale back will be a significant boost for their chances next year. However, considering the injury history involved, no one can count on either pitcher being a significant part of the rotation next season.

James Paxton has been lost for the year. At this point, it was far too late for him to make an impact on the Boston Red Sox anyway.