Manager Terry Francona said Thursday that Hunter (abdomen) will likely start the season on the disabled list, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

According to Ryan Lewis of the Akron Beacon Journal, Hunter underwent offseason surgery to repair a core muscle issue. Hunter spent last season with the Orioles and Cubs, posting a 4.18 ERA after two strong, sub-3.00 ERA campaigns with the Orioles in 2013 and 2014. Francona's comments suggest that Hunter very well could start the season on the disabled list, but he will join the bullpen once he's healthy.