BOSTON — Julio Lugo continues to struggle in his rehab and it now appears his season is over.

The Red Sox’ shortstop tore his quadriceps on July 12, and thought he could be back this month, but he suffered a setback a couple of weeks ago and hasn’t been able to return to baseball activities.

“He’s fighting it,” said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. “He’s got a ways to go. He’s fighting an uphill battle. It’s not getting any easier, but it’s not because of his effort because his effort has been great. (The season) is getting a little tight. We knew that when he had the setback.”

Prior to his injury, Lugo was hitting .268 with one homer and 22 RBI with 16 errors in the field.

In the meantime, rookie shortstop Jed Lowrie has filled in nicely. He entered last night’s game with a .275 average with two homers and 40 RBI. He has struggled a little bit of late, posting a .191 average in the 19 games prior to last night. Defensively Lowrie has been solid, committing only one error in 63 games.

Lugo has admitted it’s been frustrating, but he would still like to make it back before the end of the month, which seems unlikely at this point.

Minor-league coaches land major roles

Baring any injuries, Francona said the club will not recall any more players from the minors for the rest of the regular season. However, players aren’t the only ones who get September call-ups. PawSox manager Ron Johnson and Sea Dogs manager Arnie Beyeler will serve as bench coaches in Boston for the remainder of the season. Beyeler has already joined the club, and Johnson is expected in a few days.

pkenyon@projo.com