James Paxton plays catch, could return to the mound next week
Red Sox lefty James Paxton played catch on Thursday morning on flat ground. Paxton is currently dealing with a Grade 1 hamstring strain but is reportedly progressing in the right direction.
The left-hander played catch on Wednesday as well. The Red Sox could have him throw off the mound next week, per WEEI’s Rob Bradford.
“He’s obviously not rushing, but if he’s able to get on the mound by the end of the week, or something closer, then we’re in a better spot than what we thought a few days ago,” said manager Alex Cora on Tuesday to reporters.
Paxton was injured in his first spring start back on March 3rd when the Red Sox played the Twins. The lefty was removed after 1 2/3 innings of work after grabbing at his right leg and attempting to stretch it out.
The 34-year-old has been focusing on getting through the spring healthy and contributing for the major league club this season. This hamstring issue is another setback in the veteran’s journey back.
As of now, it’s not likely he’ll be ready for Opening Day, Boston will need him to begin to ramp back up before adding him to the roster.
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