John Lackey Suffers Right Bicep Strain on Pitch After 4 1/3-Inning, Eight-Strikeout Performance

You hate to see this happen after John Lackey worked so hard to return from Tommy John surgery.

Lackey threw a 2-2 pitch to Jose Reyes and immediately clutched his right bicep. Lackey left the mound in a lot of pain with his arm dangling. He appeared to tweak his arm on the previous pitch.

It was Lackey’s first start since missing the entire 2012 season with Tommy John surgery. The right-hander threw 4 1/3 innings with eight strikeouts and two earned runs off a J.P. Arencibia home run.

Alfredo Aceves came into the game to relieve Lackey, who went into the clubhouse. We’ll keep you updated as we know more about Lackey’s injury.

Update 3:23 p.m.: The Red Sox have announced Lackey suffered a right biceps strain. NESN’s Jenny Dell spoke to the Red Sox’ pitching coach Juan Nieves, who said Lackey will be “okay.”