Verdugo says he's healthy, will be ready when Red Sox begin season

There was some good news for the Boston Red Sox on Monday, as outfielder Alex Verdugo is now healthy and ready to play ball.

The 23-year-old, who was a big part of Boston's return from the Los Angeles Dodgers in the trade that sent Mookie Betts and David Price the other way, provided the positive update on a conference call with reporters.

Verdugo said that physically he's 100%, according to Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe. "Whenever the season starts, I'll be ready," Verdugo added.

A stress fracture in Verdugo's back has kept him out of action since last August. As recently as April 14, the Red Sox were expressing concern about the progress of the young outfielder's recovery.

Verdugo said Monday that the injury is no longer an issue and that he'd need the same amount of time as everyone else to get ready for a season once the league resumes operations, according to Mass Live's Chris Cotillo.

In 106 games for the Dodgers last season, Verdugo posted a .294/.342/.475 slash line with 12 home runs, 22 doubles, and 44 RBIs. He's expected to start in right field for the Red Sox.