CLEVELAND — Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet will undergo an MRI examination this week after experiencing tightness in his left lat during his ongoing recovery from a left shoulder injury.

Crochet, one of the team’s key pitchers, felt the discomfort following a throwing session last Thursday, which led to a temporary halt in his rehabilitation program. The 23-year-old, sidelined since late April due to inflammation and fatigue in his left shoulder, was scheduled to throw against live batters again on Tuesday but will now miss that session pending medical evaluation.

Interim manager Chad Tracy acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Crochet’s return timeline. “That’s going to push it back some, but how long, no clue. We’ll see how he feels and what the docs say and how quickly it resolves,” Tracy said. The manager described the issue as “lingering” and not merely typical soreness, noting the injury persisted despite efforts to rest.

Crochet himself characterized the setback as minor but frustrating, emphasizing caution to ensure a full recovery. “It doesn’t feel like it even deserves [the] title” of setback, he said. “I’m just trying to make sure when I do return to play, that I’m there for the rest of the year.” He further noted the injury occurred during a vulnerable phase of his rehabilitation, adding that any stress on the arm during this period increases the risk of issues.

Since being placed on the injured list, Crochet has had limited opportunities to face batters, with the last live batting practice occurring last Tuesday—his first since the initial injury sidelined him. His last major league appearance came before Alex Cora’s managerial tenure ended earlier this season.

The Red Sox have coped without Crochet’s presence in the rotation, with other pitchers stepping up amid multiple roster challenges. Roman Anthony remains out indefinitely due to a hand and wrist sprain. Tracy stressed that the team must continue focusing on winning despite the setbacks. "We’ve been getting used to… dealing with playing baseball games and life without him," he said.

In addition to the pitching concerns, outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela was removed from the lineup for Sunday’s finale against the Cleveland Guardians due to a lower back issue related to a recent diving play at Fenway Park. Tracy described the discomfort as increasing in recent days, with an off day Monday intended to aid his recovery.

Catcher Willson Contreras was also absent from the starting lineup but entered the game late, taking over at first base in the ninth inning. Tracy explained that Contreras has been experiencing a tingling sensation in his arm after several swings caused hyperextension, along with recent elbow impacts from pitches. “Broadly, he just needs a break, that’s all,” Tracy said.

The Red Sox will monitor the health status of Crochet and other players closely as they navigate a demanding stretch of the season.