Red Sox left-hander Jon Lester has been scratched from Wednesday’s start against the Blue Jays, with the possibility that he could be traded before Thursday’s trade deadline. Right-hander Brandon Workman will be called up from Triple-A Pawtucket to make the start.
Lester has been with the Red Sox for nine seasons and two World Series championships.
“It’s something you don’t like going through. It makes you feel worse. We don’t want to be in this position. If we have a big game to play, we want him pitching it. I’ve seen him every start and it would be tough to see him in another uniform,” said second baseman Dustin Pedroia.
Rumors were swirling about a trade. Teams in contention for a playoff spot could be interested in adding Lester to their roster. According to reports, the Sox would want two premium prospects in exchange. If Lester is not traded, he will likely start Friday’s game against the Yankees.
John Farrell said Lester would not get the start against the Blue Jays Wednesday because of the uncertainty.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.