Pablo Sandoval to undergo shoulder surgery, could miss season

Steven J. Gaither

Pablo Sandoval to undergo shoulder surgery, could miss season image

Red Sox third baseman Pablo Sandoval will undergo surgery on his troublesome left shoulder, the team announced Monday.

No timetable was given for Sandoval's return to the lineup, but sources told ESPN and the Boston Globe he faces a "significant" surgery and the odds are against him playing again this season.

MORE: Ranking the best third basemen in MLB

Dr. James Andrews examined Sandoval on Monday, two weeks after he was initially scheduled to evaluate the third baseman because of swelling in the shoulder. The undisclosed surgery will be performed this week. 

Even more bad news for the Red Sox: Sandoval's massive contract is not insured, according to Fox Sports.

Boston won't be able to recoup any of the $17 million it owes Sandoval this season. 

The 29-year-old is still owed $53 million from 2017 to 2019 with a $17 million club option or a $5 million buyout for 2020.

Sandoval is a two-time All-Star, a three-time World Series champion and the 2012 World Series MVP, but his weight issues and poor play since arriving in Boston have caused a distraction for the team. 

Travis Shaw, who earned the starting job at third base, will continue to see time for the current AL East leaders. 


 

Steven J. Gaither