James Paxton injury update: Southpaw exits Astros game after calf strain, set to undergo further tests

After losing their first two games, the Boston Red Sox opened their series finale against the Houston Astros at Fenway Park with starting pitcher James Paxton. However, the game began with bad news for the Red Sox.

Paxton had to leave the game in the very first inning due to a calf injury. The southpaw had thrown just five pitches, allowing two hits, before suffering the strain.

After allowing a single to Jose Altuve, Paxton got two outs with a double play against Alex Bregman. Then, Yordan Alvarez hit a ground ball to first baseman Dominic Smith.

After Smith couldn’t grab the ball properly, Paxton ran to cover first base. But after a few steps, he started limping and had to stop, kneeling in pain.

“It just felt like I got kicked in the calf. Then I kind of turned around, took another step and felt it again, and I was like, 'Oh, it’s not good,'” James Paxton said (via MLB.com).

The Boston Red Sox’s trainers and coaches came to check on James Paxton. They escorted him off the field after he couldn't put weight on his leg and was unable to leave on his own.

"I've never had a calf [injury] before, first time," Paxton added. "It hurts. I was feeling really good. I was looking forward to helping this team go where they want to go. Hopefully, I can comeback at some point here before the end."

Right-handed pitcher Lucas Sims replaced James Paxton and went on to throw two innings. Their pitching staff allowed 10 earned runs on 13 hits, issuing four walks and eight strikeouts.

The Houston Astros swept the Boston Red Sox with a 10-2 victory.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora reveals James Paxton will undergo tests

The Boston Red Sox acquired James Paxton in a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 26. Paxton made his third start on Sunday but with his injury, the team's future with him is uncertain.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora said Paxton will undergo tests, commenting (via MLB.com):

“He’s going to have an MRI tomorrow. We’ll see where we’re at. Tough one. He’s been healthy the whole season and then that happens.”

James Paxton has notched up 9 wins and 3 losses with a 4.40 ERA in 21 starts this season. The Boston Red Sox open their three-game series against the Texas Rangers on Monday.