Boston Red Sox Rumors: Is Clay Buchholz Headed For The Disabled List?

The Boston Red Sox were on a good roll coming into Friday’s matchup with the New York Yankees, but things took a bad turn in the fourth inning. Not only did the Yankees score three runs, but Clay Buchholz exited the game with an apparent injury. NESN is now reporting that Buchholz left the game with tightness in his right elbow.

Buchholz has been the most dependable starting pitcher for the Red Sox this season. He came into Friday night’s action with a 7-6 record in 17 starts with an earned run average of 3.27. As reported by ESPN Buchholz had been on a roll for the Red Sox, winning his last five decisions before Friday night.

If Buchholz has to go to the disabled list the Red Sox will have some big decisions to make in the next few weeks. The Red Sox have been able to climb back into the race for the American League East with some solid play in July. After Friday’s loss they are still just six and a half games behind the front running Yankees even though they are in last place in the division. This last series before the All-Star break will probably play a big role as to whether the Red Sox are buyers or sellers at the upcoming trade deadline.

Should the Red Sox decide to become buyers they would almost certainly be looking to add a starting pitcher to a rotation that has struggled all season long. The Red Sox have long been linked to lefty Cole Hamels of the Philadelphia Phillies. Johnny Cueto of the Cincinnati Reds is probably the most likely candidate to get dealt of any player in MLB and any team that thinks they are in the race could surely use Cueto on their staff. Chicago White Sox starter Jeff Samardzija is also likely to be dealt. The Boston bullpen could also use some help, which should be easier to find and have a smaller price tag. The Red Sox would also like to upgrade at first base because Mike Napoli has been terrible this season.

If the Red Sox go the selling route, as reported earlier at the Inquisitr, they would have been fielding offers for Buchholz, but with his status in limbo right now, that market will probably cool down if not completely die. Closer Koji Uehara certainly could be useful to some contending team along with relievers Junichi Tazawa and Alexi Ogando. The Red Sox may even consider dealing Hanley Ramirez, who has not adjusted well to playing left field.

Do you think the Boston Red Sox should be buyers or sellers?

[Image by Jim Rogash/Getty Images]