Red Sox Send Mitch Moreland Back to IL With Concerning Quad Injury
By Sean Facey
Almost as soon as he returned from the injured list, Mitch Moreland landed right back on it for an entirely different reason.
After dealing with a back injury, the Boston Red Sox first baseman is out of action again, this time with a right quad strain.
Mitch Moreland back to IL. Marco Hernandez returns from Pawtucket. First time in majors in 2 years after three shoulder surgeries.
— Christopher Smith (@SmittyOnMLB) June 8, 2019
Moreland, who leads the team with 13 home runs this year, made just two plate appearances through six innings in Friday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays before he was pulled for Michael Chavis.
The 33-year-old veteran is an integral member of Boston's lineup, serving as a quality defender at first base and a sparkplug in the middle of the order. He's been especially clutch for the team, routinely delivering in high-leverage situations. And unfortunately for the defending champs, it's possible that the issue he's dealing with is a serious one.
Moreland injury could be at least semi-serious. He’s meeting with doctors and undergoing tests today.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) June 8, 2019
Cora doesn’t think quad is torn, but this could be an extended absence.
As a corresponding move, the team has recalled infielder Marco Hernandez from Triple-A Pawtucket. Hernandez has been sidelined for two years due to recurring shoulder injuries. He has slashed .299/.365/.442 in 42 minor league games this year.
Great day for Marco Hernandez, who was last in the big leagues on May 3, 2017. Had three shoulder surgeries since and worked hard to come back. He spent all winter in Boston rehabbing.
— Pete Abraham (@PeteAbe) June 8, 2019
Still 6.5 games out of first place in the AL East, the last thing the Red Sox need is for Moreland to miss more time.
They'll have to rely on the rest of the lineup to pick up the slack in his absence.