HOUSTON -- Brian Johnson’s first stint in the major leagues lasted about two weeks, but after just one start he was sent back to Triple-A Pawtucket to make room for Wednesday's starter, Joe Kelly.
Johnson was optioned the day after he made his debut against the Astros, impressing with his power breaking ball and leading the to Red Sox a 3-1 lead until Ryan Hanigan’s bad throw on a stolen base attempt allowed two runs to score in the fifth inning. Justin Masterson offered no help in relief and Johnson was charged with four earned runs in more than four innings of work.