The Boston Red Sox shut down Clay Buchholz on Wednesday after the pitcher received a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection in his right elbow from orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews.
General manager Ben Cherington said the injection will set Buchholz back several weeks.
Ahead of his appointment with Dr. Andrews, the right-hander was hopeful he was close to returning to Boston's lineup.
Buchholz injured the elbow in a start against the New York Yankees prior to the All-Star break, but no structural damage was revealed following an MRI. He was placed on the 15-day disabled list on July 11, marking the sixth consecutive season he has spent time on the DL.
The 30-year-old is 7-7 with a 3.26 ERA in 18 starts this season.
Manager John Farrell said he believes Buchholz will be back on the mound before season's end.
