Chris Sale's Elbow Woes Continue, Lefthander Gets MRI

The Red Sox appear to be bracing for more bad news.

Ace Chris Sale, who was pitching to live batters Tuesday for the first time since being shut down last summer, suffered elbow soreness and received an MRI. Boston said it won't have more information until noted surgeon Dr. James Andrews evaluates the MRI.

Sale, who is beginning a five-year, $145 million contract, is the team's best pitcher and one the league's premier arms. But durability has always been a concern for the lanky lefthander with the funky delivery.

If Sale needs Tommy John surgery, he would miss the entire season. The Red Sox are already down starters after losing Rick Porcello to free agency and trading David Price.

Sale was already set to start the season on the injured list and miss at least two starts. The Red Sox said last week he arrived to spring training with pneumonia and needed more time to get ready for the March 26 opener.