BOSTON, May 26 (UPI) -- Veteran left-hander David Wells of Boston Friday night was hit by a line drive on his troublesome right knee in his start against Tampa Bay.
It was his first start after a stint on the 15-day disabled list.
With one out in the fifth inning, Devil Rays' first baseman Travis Lee hit a screaming line drive off the inside of Wells' knee. He fell to his back on the mound, winced in pain and, after a few minutes, was helped off the field.
The 43-year-old southpaw, who has said he will retire after the 2006 season, underwent surgery on the knee following the 2005 campaign.
To make room on their roster when Wells returned, the Red Sox optioned outfielder Dustan Mohr to Triple-A Pawtucket.
He was hitting just .175 with two homers and three RBI in 21 games. Wells began Friday night's game with an 0-1 record and an ERA of 15.75.
