Morales Activated From DL, Aceves Back to Pawtucket

In the game of Red Sox musical chairs, the music stopped today and Alfredo Aceves was left without a seat taken by Franklin Morales.

Aug 23, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Franklin Morales (46) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

As expected, Morales was activated from the 15-day DL on Tuesday and something – or rather somebody – had to give. A day after Aceves’ solid outing against the Phillies in a spot start for Clay Buchholz (irritated collarbone and AC joint), he was sent packing to make room for Boston’s lefty reliever and spot starter.

Morales had been sidelined with a succession of injuries – shoulder weakness at the end of the 2012 season, back stiffness during spring training that sidelined him, which when cleared, turned into a left pec injury that kept him sidelined for the past month.

While it’s a bit surprising that Alex Wilson remained while Aceves went back to the minors, Morales’ arrival gives Boston more left-handed options in the pen. Based on Aceves’ six complete innings against Philadelphia in which he gave up just one run while striking out four, he can expect to be back if he continues to stay strong and adjusting his attitude.

Morales was ready in the bullpen Tuesday night but did not see action as the Phils downed the Sox 3-1. With the Yankees up 1-0 in the 7th against the Mets, Boston and New York could once again be tied atop the AL East by night’s end.