Red Sox manager Terry Francona is no stranger to dealing with injured players this season. Daisuke Matsuzaka has dealt with health problems, and Tim Wakefield has spent considerable time on the disabled list. Ace Josh Beckett is the latest starter to be scratched.
Beckett, who is 16-6 with a 3.78 ERA, missed his scheduled start Monday against the visiting Toronto Blue Jays due to back spasms. Rookie Michael Bowden started in Beckett's place and got roughed up by the Blue Jays, lasting just three innings while giving up seven hits and seven earned runs.
Francona remains optimistic about Beckett's health. The manager stated that the Red Sox are just taking precautions and stressed that, at this point in the season, there is no need to overwork the players. According to boston.com, Francona says that the Red Sox are using "good judgment" in dealing with the pitcher and the discomfort Beckett is feeling has "been there for a while."
After Jon Lester was hit on the knee with a comebacker in Friday night's game against the Yankees, Francona has expressed extra concern for his pitchers. However, the Red Sox’ manager claims that after throwing a bullpen session, Lester "feels real good about himself." Francona expects the lefty to make his next scheduled start.
