Lester Says Lat Injury 'Felt Fine' In Return Against Royals
BOSTON (CBS) - Jon Lester waited 20 days before being able to pitch again, and had to wait just a bit longer through a 2-hour, 21-minute rain delay Monday night against the Royals.
Despite the delay, Lester was solid, allowing just one run on seven hits in 5.1 innings. He struck out 7, but was pulled after just 89 pitches.
Lester was out while recovering from a lat injury he suffered during a no-hitter against the Blue Jays in early July. He spent time on the disabled list and missed the All-Star Game.
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"I felt like I hadn't pitched in two weeks," said Lester. "But as far as the lat goes, it felt fine."
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Jonny Miller spoke to Lester:
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Lester said fatigue started to set in in the sixth inning, mainly because he hadn't pitched in a major league game since July 5.
"You can't simulate a big league baseball game. No matter how many bullpens or long tosses you throw, or strength exercises you do, you can't simulate that," said Lester. "I should be fine the next start."
The Royals ended up beating the Red Sox 3-1 in 14 innings.
