David Price was struck on the wrist by a line drive in Wednesday’s 14-6 blowout of the Miami Marlins. Alex Cora took a cautiously optimistic approach to the injury. He mentioned that Price was okay, but would need the next few days to make a decision on his next start against Atlanta.
Price “Still Sore” Could Miss Some Extended Time
Price saw a specialist earlier this week and has now reunited with the team for their 4-game series in Chicago. David was slotted in to pitch next against Atlanta on Monday, but Cora has all but ruled that out now.
“Still sore. He hasn’t thrown yet, most likely he won’t make his start in Atlanta,” said Cora. “He was supposed to pitch Monday. Two days, it doesn’t make any sense. I haven’t sat down with him yet, but (trainer) Brad (Pearson) told me he’s still sore. Feeling better but I don’t think he’s going to be ready for that one. So if he’s not ready for that one, we’ll push it back.
“He’ll be around us, but most likely won’t pitch in Atlanta.”
Price has been instrumental to the Red Sox in their success this season, posting a 14-6 record with a 3.60 ERA in 26 starts. Boston currently holds a 7.5 game lead in the AL East over the Yankees with 27 games to play. The team will certainly miss Price’s presence should he take more time to heal than expected, but his priority needs to be on making it to October fully healthy.
Next Man Up
Cora has yet to announce who will replace Price in the rotation, but did mention Hector Velazquez as a possibility. Velazquez is only in his 2nd year in the league but has pitched very well as a spot starter this season. He currently holds a 7-2 record with a 3.15 ERA in 38 games played (6 starts).
Boston will be calling up 5 players from Triple-A Pawtucket as teams can now expand their roster. There is a good chance that one of these prospects could make an appearance in place of Price, should the team decide against using Velazquez.