Alex Cora Shares Update on Walker Buehler’s Return and Other Red Sox Injuries
Red Sox manager Alex Cora offered a clearer timeline for pitcher Walker Buehler’s return after the right-hander was placed on the injured list last week with shoulder bursitis. Cora said Buehler is expected to make his return during Boston’s upcoming home series against the Mets, scheduled for May 19–21. Although Buehler is eligible to return as soon as Wednesday against the Tigers, he is not currently traveling with the team and will wait until the team is back in Boston.
“It won’t be on this trip,” Cora clarified. “It’ll be on the homestand… Probably, the Mets series.”
Buehler experienced a setback following his April 26 start in Cleveland but was relieved to find no structural damage in his shoulder. He resumed his throwing program recently.
“He played catch yesterday,” said Cora. “He’s expected to get back on the mound either tomorrow or Monday.”
Additional Red Sox Injury Updates:
- Kutter Crawford (patellar tendinopathy in his right knee) has continued to throw live batting practice in Fort Myers and may soon begin a rehab assignment.
“He’s doing good,” Cora said. “They liked how it went.” - Richard Fitts (right pectoral strain), sidelined since mid-April, is also making progress.
“He threw a bullpen this week,” Cora noted. “An up-and-down session might happen Monday. He’s trending well.” - Masataka Yoshida (right shoulder surgery) hasn’t been cleared to throw yet following a cortisone injection last Sunday.
- Romy Gonzalez was added to the 10-day IL retroactive to May 8 after suffering a left quad contusion from a collision with Rangers’ Josh Smith. The team expects him to be out for the minimum time.
“It’s a short-term thing,” said Cora. “He just wasn’t bouncing back quickly, so we’re playing it safe.” - Rob Refsnyder is dealing with back spasms but won’t be placed on the IL.
“He’s improving,” Cora said. “He hit in the cage today and we expect him to return during the week, though not tonight.”
