Robby Scott optioned to Triple-A; Brian Johnson recalled for Tuesday’s start

Doug Fister was supposed to get the start for the Red Sox on Tuesday, but those plans got screwed up when the Red Sox and Yankees went for 16 innings on Saturday. Fister tossed over 50 pitches in that game, and that has forced him out of today’s start. Instead, they’ll be sending Brian Johnson to the mound. To make room for Johnson on the active roster, the Red Sox made a surprising move in optioning Robby Scott down to Triple-A.

I’m not going to lie, I’m shocked by this. I thought for sure the move would simply be sending Brandon Workman back down to Triple-A and recalling someone like Ben Taylor or Noe Ramirez after Johnson’s start. Instead, the Red Sox are demoting Scott, the guy who has served as their primary lefty out of the bullpen for the entire season.

On the one hand, I think Scott has been miscast as a number one lefty. Furthermore, he’s been struggling a bit lately with a 9.45 ERA since June 21 while allowing a 1.021 OPS. On the other hand, this leaves Fernando Abad as the team’s only lefty, and he will be for some time. Remember, Scott must now remain in Pawtucket for at least ten days unless someone is placed on the disabled list.

As for Johnson, the left-handed starter has been solid as a spot starter at the big-league level this year and is coming off an outstanding outing in Pawtucket. There’s virtually no chance this stint lasts any longer than this one start, but given the recent offensive performance the Red Sox need a strong start from Johnson on Tuesday.