Buchholz Resumes Throwing But No Timetable Set For Return

Clay Buchholz has started throwing again but no timetable as yet has been set for his return. Buchholz, who played catch for the first time since aggravating his neck during a circus play at first base that saw him stumble, tumble and ultimately make the tag to get the out in his last start, left the game with neck stiffness.

June 2, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Clay Buchholz (11) pitches against the New York Yankees during the second inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

As reported by the Globe’s Julian Benbow, the neck stiffness wasn’t initially believed to be related to the irritation Buchholz experienced in his AC joint that forced him to miss a start at the end of May. Buchholz, however, said Saturday the pain was indeed close to the trapezius muscle that trainers had been working on.

Buchholz is very likely to miss his next scheduled start against the Orioles on Sunday. Manager John Farrell will make that announcement on Thursday. Buchholz is 9-0 with a big league-best 1.71 ERA.

‘‘He threw the ball OK, but he still felt a little stiffness,’’ Farrell said. ‘‘But improved over the last time he had a ball in his hand. So, we’ve got to factor in what takes place today and tomorrow. The fact that he’s still feeling some stiffness, we’ve got to factor that in.’’