Beltre was removed from Sunday’s game in Toronto with what would later be diagnosed as a strained hamstring. The All-Star third baseman shouldn’t miss much time though. NESN’s Heidi Watney said it wouldn’t surprise her if Beltre was in the lineup when the second half of the season starts on July 15 against the Rangers.
The Red Sox got some encouraging results Sunday in regards to starting pitcher Josh Beckett. The right-hander went four innings in a rehab start in Pawtucket. It was the first rehab start for Beckett, who’s been sidelined since May 18 with a lower back strain.
Outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury joined the team in Toronto as he continues to work his way back from rib injuries that have limited to only 44 at-bats this season. However, depsite re-joining the team, there is still no concrete timetable for the center-fielder’s return. Ellsbury will be re-evaluted upon returning to Boston before being sent to Fort Myers to rehab.
Pitcher Clay Buchholz is also close to returning after suffering a hamstring injury on June 26 in a game against the Giants. Buchholz is scheduled to come off of the disabled list and make his next start June 16 against the Rangers.
Catchers Victor Martinez and Jason Varitek are also starting to work their way back. Martinez (fractured left thumb) could be back shortly after the All-Star break, while Varitek (broken right foot) could be back by early August.
Also slated to return early next month is All-Star second baseman Dustin Pedroia. Pedroia suffered a broken left foot on June 25 and is hoping to return in August.
Shortstop Jed Lowrie recently started a rehab assignment with Single-A Lowell, where he has collected six hits in four games and is progressing nicely. Lowrie is battling back from a bout with mononucleosis.
The law of averages says the Red Sox should have a healthier second half, but one thing is certain: The All-Star break could not come at a better time.
