Alex Cora Offers Significant Update On Injured Red Sox Infielder

Red Sox manager Alex Cora provided a significant update on Vaughn Grissom who has been on the shelf since June 2 with a right hamstring strain -- his second long-term trip to the injured list this season.

Grissom has been on a rehab assignment with injured first baseman Triston Casas in Triple-A Worcester since July 20. Cora told reporters in Kansas City prior to Boston's contest with the Royals he has been updated on Grissom's numbers and defensive metrics.

"He's moving a lot better than early in the season, which is great," Cora said. "He put some work on that; he's getting stronger. Range is better. First step is better. Out conversion is better. Offensively, he feels like he's hitting the ball harder, so that's good."

Grissom's ability to stay in the minors is limited to 20 days before the Red Sox will have to make a decision on calling him up. Cora said since Boston is off on Thursday, Grissom could join the team on the homestand that begins against the Houston Astros on Friday.

The Red Sox will most likely be cautious with Grissom to not reaggravate his hamstring injuries, which have limited him to just 23 games this season.

"Where we are roster-wise right now, we feel we're in a good spot," Cora said. "We know the potential of the player. We know that he's getting close to who he is, which is very important. Whenever we have to make a decision, we'll make it but understanding that he's still a good player."

Grissom has slashed .211/.318/.211 with four hits, three walks and five strikeouts in his last seven games in Triple-A.

Cora also added that Chris Martin felt good on Tuesday after playing catch on Monday night. He is eligible to be activated off the injured list on Wednesday and while Cora did not admit it's a sure thing, he did state Martin was staying with the team in Kansas City.