Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Red Sox’s Justin Slaten Shares Confusing Injury Update Amid Division Race

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Aug 2, 2025 2:07 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox might be getting relief pitcher Justin Slaten back in the coming weeks ... or they might not.

If you’re confused, trust us: we are, too. The Red Sox initially placed Slaten on the injured list in early June with what they deemed right shoulder soreness. However, Slaten told WEEI’s Rob Bradford that the injury wasn’t so simple.

As it turns out, Slaten’s transverse bone was growing into a nerve in his neck, and doctors have since fixed it. According to Bradford, Slaten said on Saturday that he “feels back normal.”

“Seems like very real option by September,” Bradford reported.

Justin Slaten, Hammers. ⚒️⚒️ pic.twitter.com/OzfAbczQod
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 17, 2025

Although Slaten says he feels normal and the injury has healed, there is no indication when he’ll start a rehab assignment. However, one would understandably assume the Red Sox would want the second-year righty back as soon as possible.

Interestingly, Slaten’s revelation comes only days after Red Sox manager Alex Cora reiterated that they’re still not sure when Slaten will return. Slaten played catch on Tuesday but did not throw a bullpen session.

“I don’t know how fast it’s going to go from now on, but the fact he was able to do that with no red flags is a good first step,” Cora told reporters.

Slaten, who turns 28 in September, owns a 3.47 ERA and a 16-7 K-BB ratio in 23 1/3 innings. The Red Sox are four games back in the AL East and half a game behind the New York Yankees for the AL’s top Wild Card spot.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: