Red Sox place Christian Vazquez on 60-day DL with elbow sprain

By his own admission, Boston Red Sox catcher Christian Vazquez had "a lot" of anxiety after a recent MRI revealed something unsettling in his wonky right elbow.

Though the 24-year-old is scheduled to meet with Dr. James Andrews later this week for a second opinion, his anxiety was validated Monday when he was placed on the 60-day disabled list with an elbow sprain.

Vazquez last appeared in a Grapefruit League game March 13, but assured reporters as recently as Thursday he'd be ready to take the field on Opening Day. His entire season, however, could now be in jeopardy as Vazquez could require Tommy John surgery if Andrews confirms damage to his ulnar collateral ligament.

Lauded for his strong throwing arm and ability to control the running game, Vazquez suggested earlier this week that any serious arm injury could compromise his ability to earn a living.

"It's tough, because this is my food - my arm," Vazquez said.

Related: Red Sox acquire Sandy Leon from Nationals

In his absence, Ryan Hanigan should assume the majority of the playing time behind the plate. The Red Sox also acquired Sandy Leon from the Washington Nationals on Monday to improve their depth at catcher, though top prospect Blake Swihart could contend for a spot on the active roster at some point in 2015.