The Red Sox optioned shortstop Gil Velazquez to Pawtucket, in anticipation of Julio Lugo joining the club tomorrow. In lieu of Velazquez, the Sox brought up Michael Bowden to pitch out of the bullpen. The Sox bullpen is rather beleaguered — certainly not to the extent of the Yankees, but this was a move sorely needed. If Masterson doesn’t go long or it’s a blowout by the time Masterson is done, Bowden will get the call.

For those wondering why Clay Buchholz was not recalled, he’s injured. Not terribly, but still injured.

EDIT: The Beacon News reported this, with a h/t to Sox Prospects for the original news.