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April 22, 2008
BOSTON – David Pauley’s stay in Boston was short.
The right-hander, called up from Pawtucket and pressed into service as the starting pitcher last night when Josh Beckett (stiff neck) was unable to go, was told he would be optioned back to the PawSox today.
Manager Terry Francona said that, as of last night, it wasn’t clear who would come up to take Pauley’s spot on the roster. It depends on the health of catcher Jason Varitek, who has been suffering from a debilitating case of the flu.
Varitek missed his third straight game last night. But Francona said Varitek informed him before last night’s game that he thought the worst of the flu was over for him.
Francona said if Varitek is more improved today, Boston will call up a position player. If he isn’t, the Sox will promote a catcher to back up Kevin Cash. Last night’s backup catcher was starting second baseman Dustin Pedroia.
The Sox are especially thin in the outfield because to make room for Pauley yesterday they designated utilityman Joe Thurston for assignment. Coco Crisp continues to recover from a hamstring injury and could be available to start tomorrow.
Beckett, meanwhile, could be healthy enough to make his next scheduled start, Sunday on the road against Tampa Bay.
-- Steven Krasner
Posted by Steven Krasner 
at 11:36 PM | Permalink
