Andrew Bailey may need surgery, Beckett OK
FORT MYERS, Fla. — Red Sox closer Andrew Bailey will be in Cleveland on Tuesday to get a second opinion on his injured right thumb from Dr. Thomas Graham, a hand specialist and surgeon. Bailey was examined today in Boston. According to major league sources, the news was not good and Bailey may require surgery. It is not clear how long he would be out.
Manager Bobby Valentine said today that the situation was a concern.
"When a player is injured I always am very concerned and always try to make alternative plans. If he jumps right back in, then I’m pleasantly surprised," he said "When guys are hurt, they’re hurt and he couldn’t pitch for a couple of days, you know? I’m not sure how long."
And it begins...
At least Josh Beckett was deemed healthy enough to pitch on Saturday, effectively throwing Alfredo Aceves back into consideration for the closer's role. If anyone had questions about Bailey's durability this should just about answer them.
This could spark some interest in Roy Oswalt again which would bring about the return of Daniel Bard to the bullpen. Right now it's all just Twitter talk but the Sox are going to have to do something if Bailey is going to have surgery.