Report: Chris Sale will not need Tommy John surgery

Boston Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale got the best possible diagnosis on Monday when his sore left elbow was checked out.

Sale saw Dr. James Andrews, who confirmed the club’s original diagnosis of inflammation. That means Sale will not need Tommy John surgery.

Boston Red Sox ace Chris Sale does not need Tommy John surgery, sources tell ESPN. A follow-up today with Dr. James Andrews confirmed the diagnosis of elbow inflammation. His return date is unclear, but for Boston, this is excellent news.

Story at ESPN: https://t.co/EZZrKY2Hn0

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 19, 2019

It’s always frightening when a pitcher is sent to see Dr. Andrews while nursing elbow issues, but the Red Sox have received the best possible news here. He has been placed on the IL and, while there is no return date at this point, it should be a manageable absence that can be dealt with by rest.