Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Clay Buchholz is scheduled to return Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays, his first start since June 8, reports Dan Duggan of the Boston Herald.
Clay Buchholz to start Tuesday
Buchholz’s return is expected to push Dempster into the bullpen.
Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Buchholz made his third and final rehab start for Triple-A Pawtucket on Thursday. He pitched 3 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on four hits. The starter sounded pleased with his performance, telling Ricky Doyle of NESN:
“I threw all my pitches. Whenever I reach back and try to throw something, I know it’s going to be there. It’s all about how the ball is moving out of my hand, and the release point.”
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Shoulder and neck injuries cost Buchholz three months of the season. He pitched well when healthy, going 9-0 with a 1.71 ERA in his first 12 starts.
Buchholz's return will push one of the Red Sox starters into the bullpen. Ryan Dempster is the expected candidate, according to Evan Drellich of Mass Live. The veteran has struggled this year, going 8-9 with a 4.79 ERA. He also served as the Chicago Cubs closer for three seasons, compiling 87 career saves.
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