Red Sox Brock Holt exits game with hamstring injury

The injury bug bites the Red Sox again. One of Boston’s hottest hitters left Thursday night’s game.

Boston Red Sox utility man Brock Holt left Thursday night’s game in Toronto against the Blue Jays with a hamstring injury

Holt was running out a double in the third inning, when he pulled up limping and grabbing his left hamstring after rounding first base. Holt was clearly in discomfort and immediately looked toward the dugout as he reached second base.

Tzu-Wei Lin was summoned to pinch run for Holt and later scored on a double on a double by Andrew Benintendi. This was presumably Lin’s last game, as he was the likely odd man out since Xander Bogaerts is set to return for Friday night’s game against the Rays.

But Holt’s injury changes course for Lin, who was likely to be optioned. Less will be expected of Lin however, since Bogey will be penciled in nearly every game. This injury is an important moment for Lin’s career. He must capitalize with the limited opportunities he’ll get while Holt is likely on the disabled list. Lin has had an opportunity to make noise since April 8 and will get at least another week to impress the Red Sox. After a hot start at the plate, Lin’s bat has cooled.

This injury comes at a poor time for Holt who has been hitting well since his home run against the Angels in Anaheim. Holt went 7-for-11 this three-game series in Toronto and has brought stability to Boston’s lineup who has struggled since the series against the Angels.

However, despite likely losing Holt to the DL, the timing of the injury is somewhat convenient for the Red Sox. A team never wants a valuable player to go down with an injury, but Holt’s is minor and comes at a time when Boston gets their star shortstop back. Bogey’s return would’ve significantly cut down Holt’s playing time, anyways.

One thing the Red Sox will miss is Holt’s versatility. Lin can play second base and shortstop, but isn’t much of a utility man. Holt can be placed at nearly any position and offers a veteran presence late in games.

Next: Red Sox reliever Joe Kelly’s 6-game suspension upheld

It’s never easy to see a player get injured, especially at a time when said player is red hot at the plate. Holt is a beloved guy who positively influences the clubhouse on and off the field. He’ll certainly be missed, but thankfully it’s not too serious.