BOSTON -- Pablo Sandoval is headed to the disabled list because of a shoulder strain, throwing a new wrinkle into what has been a tumultous season for the veteran third baseman.
Veteran infielder Josh Rutledge has been recalled from Pawtucket as a replacement.
John Farrell said he couldn't pinpoint when Sandoval -- who lost his starting job to Travis Shaw in spring training -- hurt the shoulder, but added that the team became aware of it today.
The move, Farrell acknowledged, is "a breather that gives him a chance to step away from the scrutiny he's under".
"He's been an easy target."
Sandoval was booed on Opening Day and has only six at-bats all season. He's hitless, and struck out in four of them.
Despite that, Farrell says he still considers Sandoval to be an "important" part of the team.
