Chris Sale to the 10 day i.l.

Boston Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale has been placed on the 10 day injured list with elbow inflammation, it was announced today. Sale reportedly is going to see Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion on his left elbow.

This is just the latest blow it what has been a disappointing season for the BoSox, who are 6.5 games out of a Wild Card spot. While the bullpen has been the focus of fans’ ire, Rick Porcello has been bad this year, Chris Sale has not performed up to his usual standards, and Nathan Eovaldi missed significant time before being moved to the bullpen.

Sale missed time in 2018 due to a shoulder issue. Nevertheless, there was some criticism of the 30 year old for signing a 5 year, $145 million contract extension this spring with an opt out after year three. Many felt Sale should bet on himself and hit the free agent market this offseason with an eye towards setting a new standard for free agent pitchers. That was always going to be a risky proposition for Sale, however, given the questions about his durability, and it appears he likely made the right decision to take the guaranteed money, in light of both his 4.40 ERA this season and this elbow issue.