MASH Unit: Victorino, Bailey, Hanrahan

The Guru
Contributing Writer

Shane Victorino has made some fantastic plays in the outfield this season. Unfortunately, some have been in the "Fred Lynn-crashes into-the-wall-again" variety.

Victorino made two great catches in the bottom of the eighth inning in last nights 4-3 Red Sox comeback win when he robbed Jose Labaton of a sure double then tracked down a drive from Desmond Jennings with his back to the infield to end the inning. However, it was during the Labaton play that Victorino injured his back as he hit the wall.

Victorino left the game in the ninth for Jonny Gomes. His status is day-to-day for now.

Victorino did not play from April 25 to May 2 because of back spasms. And there was the bone-jarring collision with the bullpen during last Sunday's Mother's Day loss that required a trip for x-rays on his ribs.

While Victorino's play has been outstanding, lets hope someone takes the time to explain to him crash test dummies do not make for healthy outfielders.

Look for Andrew Bailey to be back in the Boston bullpen on Monday when the Red Sox open a three-game series in Chicago against the White Sox.

The closer threw a 15-pitch simulated game on Thursday. Bailey will make an appearance for Triple-A Pawtucket Saturday.

Bailey has been sidelined since April 28 with a strained right bicep.

Red Sox reliever Joel Hanrahan underwent Tommy John surgery yesterday. The right-hander also had his flexor tendon repaired and bone spurs removed.

The soon to be free agent won't pitch again this year and could miss part of the '14 season.

Starting pitcher Franklin Morales (pectoral) pitched three innings for Triple-A Pawtucket Monday, May 13, and he'll go four innings for Pawtucket on Saturday. The Red Sox would prefer to use him as starting rotation depth, so he'll continue to be stretched out as a starter. He could replace Felix Doubront in the rotation if he continues to struggle.

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