For MLB pitchers, especially those rehabbing from a long-term injury, the most important day is not the one in which they pitch.
The day after can be just as important, as soreness settles in around the body.
In the specific case of Boston Red Sox left-handed pitcher Chris Sale, it’s something that manager Alex Cora and the rest of the organization will definitely be monitoring in the next few days.
Sale, who has been out since spring training due to a stress fracture in his right rib cage, could make his final rehab start on Wednesday with Triple-A Worcester.
That means he could be back in the Red Sox’s rotation next week if all goes well.
The Red Sox Are Cautiously Optimistic
The Sox will likely want to see it with their own eyes, though, before making things official.
“Update: Chris Sale could return to #RedSox rotation as early as next week. Alex Cora told @MLBNetworkRadio that team officials will see how he’s feeling on Thursday after tomorrow’s injury rehab start. If all checks out, Sale’s subsequent game could be at @MLB level,” insider Jon Morosi tweeted.
Update: Chris Sale could return to #RedSox rotation as early as next week. Alex Cora told @MLBNetworkRadio that team officials will see how he’s feeling on Thursday after tomorrow’s injury rehab start. If all checks out, Sale’s subsequent game could be at @MLB level. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 5, 2022
That’s right: the 45-35 Red Sox, who have claimed second place in the AL East by virtue of their recent strong play, will welcome back a pitcher with ace potential.
It’s not clear if the 33-year-old Sale has that kind of upside at this point of his career, but he is fresh off posting a 3.16 ERA last year in limited action in his first year back from Tommy John surgery.
Clearly, he can still miss bats at the MLB level.
The Red Sox, who are already rock-solid, could be getting stronger for the second half.
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