Red Sox News: Marcelo Mayer injury, John Henry Celtics, Cubs DFA relief fit

Top Boston Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer hasn't a game since his promotion to Triple-A Worcester on Aug. 12. Fans will have to wait at least a week longer to see Boston's most-awaited prospect debut at the next level.

The young shortstop has been moved to the seven-day injured list with a lower back/upper glute muscle issue. Mayer's short IL stint suggests the WooSox aren't too concerned about his ailment, but he's already been on the shelf for quite a while.

The 21-year-old hasn't played since July 30 when he was pulled from Double-A Portland's game against Erie. He also missed a week of games against Somerset due to a pectoral issue, and questions about his durability have begun to rattle around Red Sox Nation.

Mayer said the organization has been cautious with him as he's been injured and that it doesn't want him playing through anything serious. He told reporters he'd been feeling better on Aug. 13, but fans will still have to wait to see the Red Sox's No. 1 prospect debut with Worcester.

WooSox place top Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer on injured list

Red Sox reporter Tony Massarotti may have some positive news for fans who are also invested in the Celtics. Rumors have flown that Red Sox owner John Henry may be interested in purchasing the Celtics, which have been placed up for sale after their recent championship.

Massarotti does not believe Fenway Sports Group (FSG) is interested in purchasing the Celtics, mostly for financial reasons. As the NBA's winningest franchise with two of the most expensive contracts in league history on the books, it's fair to say they'll be expensive — some have estimated the value of former owner Wyc Grousbeck's share to be around $6 billion.

Red Sox owner John Henry, Fenway Sports Group may not be interested in purchasing Celtics

There have been long-term rumors that FSG is interested in purchasing an NBA expansion team in the future. If the group looks to keep costs low, which Red Sox fans have certainly seen in recent years, an expansion team would be a better option. It would also free Boston fans from two teams potentially run by Henry.

Cubs DFA Héctor Neris, who could help Red Sox struggling bullpen

The Red Sox own a league-leading 12 blown saves since the All-Star break and their late-inning woes have caused them to slip in the American League wild card race. Héctor Neris may be able to help.

The Cubs designated the veteran closer for assignment on Aug. 20 and he'll need to clear waivers before he reaches Triple-A or is released. He's posted a 3.89 ERA with 46 strikeouts and 26 walks in 44 innings. He's converted 17 saves in 22 opportunities.

Neris has struggled in recent outings and has clocked a 4.91 ERA in his last seven games. But Boston's bullpen has grown desperate, and any depth additions could help it get closer to the postseason.

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