Workman getting second opinion on elbow from Dr. Andrews

BOSTON -- Right-hander Brandon Workman spent Tuesday getting a second opinion on his ailing right elbow from Dr. James Andrews, which indicates the injury could be significant.

The Red Sox had optioned Workman to Triple-A Pawtucket on April 3, but on Monday, the club announced it had reversed the option and placed him on the Major League 15-day disabled list with a right elbow strain.

The injury occurred while Workman was pitching for the Red Sox in his last outing during Spring Training, which is why the club reversed the option.

"He attempted to throw a bullpen [session] after he was optioned and there was discomfort there," said Red Sox manager John Farrell. "I think anytime someone gets a second opinion with Dr. Andrews there's concern. To what extent there is damage or injury remains to be seen, and what the follow up treatment will be as a result remains to be seen also."

Workman emerged into a key bullpen piece for the Red Sox down the stretch of the 2013 championship season. Last year, he was inconsistent as a starter.

The plan for Workman this year was to work exclusively out of the bullpen.