Injured Relief Pitcher Notes: Bailey, Breslow, Morales

The Red Sox remarkably managed to fight through injuries to have an excellent April, going 18-8. To start the month of May, the Red Sox have looked healthier as they have David Ortiz and Stephen Drew back in the lineup. However, they are still without a few relief pitchers (Craig Breslow and Franklin Morales) who missed April, as well as the potential addition of Andrew Bailey onto the injured player lists.

Apr 22, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Andrew Bailey (40) throws a pitch in the ninth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Bailey last pitched on April 28 against the Astros and has been feeling discomfort in his bicep. He was cleared to pitch yesterday, but then after throwing a bullpen session was deemed unfit to pitch. This does not look like a serious injury, but there’s a risk that it could nag on him for a little while. The Red Sox need Bailey back as a force in the back of their bullpen, and preferably as soon as possible.

Sep 22, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Breslow (32) pitches against the Baltimore Orioles during the eighth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

Craig Breslow has missed the entire season to date after feeling discomfort in his throwing shoulder during the spring. That has since ben diagnosed as left shoulder tendonitis. However, Breslow is making the long road back from injury. Breslow is currently on a rehab assignment in Pawtucket and has looked sharp while there, recording a scoreless inning last night. He should be back soon.

August 5, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Franklin Morales (46) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Franklin Morales, like Breslow, felt some pain during spring training and has missed the entire season to date. That was diagnosed as a bulging disc in his back, and the news on Morales is not so good as it is on Breslow. He was shut down from his rehab assignment a few weeks ago and is not currently pitching. He did long toss on Monday, so hopefully he is feeling good and is ready to act as the Red Sox’ long-man out of the bullpen.