Kenley Jansen was held out of Monday’s game with back stiffness, but is set to throw Tuesday. ‘It needs to happen,’ says Manager Alex Cora.

Ceddanne Rafaela, a candidate to be Boston’s starting center fielder, hits a three-run homer in the Spring Breakout game against the Braves.

Valdez, who played in 49 games for Boston last season, is the favorite to fill in for injured newcomer Vaughn Grissom.

Tommy John surgery could have sidelined Lucas Giolito until after the 2025 All-Star break, while the brace procedure may cost him less than 12 months.

Lucas Giolito was able to avoid ligament replacement surgery, which he had on Aug. 31, 2012.

Rafaela has three home runs this spring and is battling to be Boston’s starting center fielder.

Whitlock’s brother died late last season and the pitcher leaned on his teammates, especially Tanner Houck, to get through the grieving process.

The surgery could be season-ending for Giolito, who was signed by Boston as a free agent this winter.