June 1, 2007 at 11:59 PM
Lester Activated, Optioned to Pawtucket
The Red Sox announced this afternoon that they have activated LHP Jon Lester from the DL and have optioned him to AAA Pawtucket. There had been some speculation that Lester would take the place of Julian Tavarez in the Red Sox rotation when activated, but his last rehab start was marred by giving up 3 ER in 2.2 IP (70 pitches) on 5 hits and 3 BB against Ottawa (June 9). Earlier today Lester threw a bullpen session with pitching coach John Farrell in attendance and later met with Theo Epstein, Terry Francona and Farrell where he was informed of the move. He began the year making three rehab appearances for (low-A) Greenville (0-0 13 IP, 11 H, 3 ER 15 K/2 BB, 2.08 ERA), and then moved to Pawtucket where he started seven games (1-2 31.1 IP, 23 H, 7 ER, 22 K/11 BB: 2.01 ERA). Lester had suffered a setback when he felt cramping in his left forearm May 2, causing his 30-day rehab clock to be reset. His rehab had been scheduled to come to an end June 18.