Ellsbury Has Compression Fracture In His Right Foot

In a year when Red Sox subs have consistently stepped up when some of Boston’s big guns have gone down, it looks like Jackie Bradley Junior will get his chance for the month of September. After getting checked out today in Denver, Colorado it was determined that Ellsbury has a compression fracture in the navicular bone of his right foot. Although this is not good news short-term, Manager John Farrell expects that Ellsbury will return to action at some point before the postseason.

Aug 25, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Nick Punto (7) cannot handle the throw as Boston Red Sox center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury (2) slides into second base during the game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

“Yeah, the exam that he went through, the images taken in Denver concur with what’s been found in the exam in Boston and he does have a compression fracture,” Farrell told MLB.com’s Jason Mastrodonato. “That means it’s non-displaced. But at the same time, we feel like he’ll return this year. He’s in a boot right now, will be for the time being. We feel like he’ll be back to us before this year is out. We’re hopeful in the regular season, yes.”

For those Red Sox fans experiencing deja vu, it’s justified. In June 0f 2010, Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia fractured his navicular bone and played only two games the rest of that season. What’s the difference? Pedroia’s break was much worse. One can only hope. For now Boston’s best base stealer is in a boot with plenty of important games piling up down the stretch.

“We’ll have to pick up the slack,” said Pedroia. “He’s a huge part of our lineup and team. Guys are going to have to step up, and they will.”

In the meantime Jackie Bradley Jr., who was recalled from Triple-A Pawtucket as part of Boston’s expanded September lineup, will get some playing as will Shane Victorino, who can also play center field.  The red-hot Victorino will likely move up to the leadoff spot.