Michael Silverman / Boston Herald
Josh Beckett is tentatively scheduled to come off the disabled list Friday in Texas but should he and the team feel his elbow needs a day or two of additional rest, the schedule is working in the Red Sox [team stats]’ favor.
Thursday’s off day means that yesterday’s starter, Tim Wakefield [stats], could slide into Beckett’s spot with his regular four days’ rest. That also would enable the rest of the rotation to stay in its regular order.
Wakefield threw just 82 pitches in an effective six innings during the Sox’ 4-2 loss yesterday to the White Sox. It was his second start since coming off the DL after shoulder tightness, so preserving his health was part of the reason why he came out early. Being an option for Friday had to be a factor, as well.
“That’s about right where we targeted, where we wanted him,” manager Terry Francona said. “The idea is to win today but also to continue. I think this is definitely in his best interest. I think it will pay dividends down the road.”
Saturday’s starter, Michael Bowden, was optioned back to Triple-A Pawtucket to make room for outfielder Jonathan Van Every on the 25-man roster. The earliest Bowden can return to the Sox is either Sept. 10, or the day after the PawSox’ playoff run finishes. The earliest that could happen is Saturday, provided the team is swept by Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in the first round.
“We’re trying to leave all our options open,” Francona said of Bowden.
Beckett, who played catch yesterday, said he spent much of Friday and Saturday trying to get over a stomach bug. The right-hander said he felt 75 percent better yesterday.
Wakefield, meanwhile, had his 17th quality start of the season.
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