BOSTONLeft fielder Carl Crawford has had a setback in his rehab from left wrist and elbow injuries that have kept him on the disabled list all season.
Crawford injured his left groin and is being pulled back from his rehab assignment.
There was some confusion as to the extent of Crawfords injurythe team announcing it was a mild left groin strain, manager Bobby Valentine saying it was not a strain. But the result is that Crawford is being pulled off his rehab assignment. According to MLB rules, he will not be able to play in a minor league game for seven days before beginning another rehab assignment. Crawford would be able to have another 20-day assignment, if necessary.
Valentine said Crawford suffered the injury in Thursday game with Double-A Portland, rounding second on a triple.
But hes going to go right back in and start hitting again soon in a game, Valentine said. Its not a strain or anything, its justa little preventative thing make sure it doesnt get worse.
Crawford said Friday he still feels some occasional discomfort in his left elbow. Its a situation he may deal with all season.
I think we have to manage that situation as he plays, Valentine said. And maybe just a caution flag.
Boston Red Sox
Clay Buchholz, on the disabled list since June 20 after being hospitalized with esophagitis, is scheduled to pitch for Triple-A Pawtucket Sunday. Valentine said Buchholz is expected to throw about 40 pitches. If his outing goes well, Buchholz could be slotted into the rotation for the first series after the All-Star break, for three games in Tampa Bay beginning July 13.
Jacoby Ellsbury, on the DL since April 14 with a subluxation of his right shoulder, is scheduled to play for Pawtucket tonight against Syracuse. Ellsbury played last night for Portland, going 10for-4 with a double and a run scored. He is 4-for-19 with tow doubles, a home run, three RBI, four runs scored, and four walks in 6 rehab games.
Chris Carpenter is scheduled to pitch for Greenville Sunday. He has made two rehab appearances for the Gulf Coast League as he recovers from right elbow surgery.
Ryan Sweeney, on the DL with left big toe inflammation, has today off.