WEEI.com: Bradford: Beckett’s Go-To Guy

Josh Beckett’s Zen Master ... Dr. James Andrews.

The Red Sox’ doctors and trainers had done their due diligence, seemingly identifying the source of the problem without taking an MRI. Although for Beckett, the ultimate peace of mind had come with the phone calls to Andrews.

Beckett’s first call to the Birmingham, Ala.-based doctor came last Friday
after experiencing a setback following a throwing session. Since then the communication has continued via cell phone, stretching to the latest round of analysis Wednesday.

“He’s hesitant to tell me exactly what he thinks it is because he hasn’t seen it,” Beckett said. “Over the phone he gives me some reassurance, but he’s like, ‘It doesn’t sound like this, but I can rule that out until I see it.’

“I’ve (referred) to him on everything I’ve ever had with my shoulder or elbow. I’ve had other doctors check me out for physicals and things like that, but when it comes to, ‘I need this done,’ or ‘I need an MRI because I’m hurt or injured,’ I’m going to see Dr. Andrews.”