Boston's Beckett to have thumb examined

Fort Myers, FL – Boston Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett has left spring training to have his injured right thumb examined in Texas.

The 31-year-old Beckett is scheduled to start Boston's second game of the season Saturday at Detroit. If Beckett is unable to start, Alfredo Aceves is expected to pitch in his place.

Beckett, a Texas native, compiled an earned run average of 0.95 in five outings this spring. In 30 starts last season, the right-hander was 13-7 with a 2.89 ERA.