Red Sox’s Richard Fitts Exits Start Vs. White Sox With Injury

UPDATE: Richard Fitts left the game with right shoulder pain, per the NESN broadcast.

Richard Fitts put together a terrific start for the Boston Red Sox against the Chicago White Sox before it came to a swift end Saturday afternoon at Rate Field.

Fitts finished five scoreless innings where he allowed just two hits and one walk with five strikeouts. His stuff looked impressive as the young right-hander turned in his best start of the season so far.

The Red Sox starter began the sixth inning and worked into a 2-2 count against Miguel Vargas. Fitts reached for the right side of his upper body after throwing a breaking ball and exited the game with Red Sox medical staff and manager Alex Cora. Fitts threw 76 pitches and Zack Kelly entered the game in relief.

The injury concern comes as Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito each continue rehab starts with Triple-A Worcester. The Red Sox still won’t see Kutter Crawford until at least May, though Hunter Dobbins made his MLB debut last homestand and can make a spot start as needed for the Red Sox if Fitts misses his next start or more.