Red Sox closer Keith Foulke returned to Boston Thursday for an examination on his troublesome left knee which shelved the righthander for two months earlier this season. Foulke, who underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair cartilage damage in early July, was scheduled to meet with Red Sox team doctor Dr. Thomas Gill. The 32- year-old has pitched in just six games since being activated from the 15-day disabled list on September 2. The Red Sox have not yet determined how long this latest knee problem will keep Foulke sidelined, although Boston radio station WEEI reported Thursday that he will not pitch again this season. Foulke had 32 saves with a 2.17 earned run average last year and was a key contributor to Boston's 2004 world championship run, but he hasn't come close to approaching those numbers this season. His ERA has ballooned to 5.91 and he has served up eight home runs in 45 2/3 innings of work, while blowing four of his 19 save opportunities for the year. Since returning from the DL, Foulke has allowed three runs over 6 2/3 innings. He tossed two scoreless frames Sunday against Oakland in his most recent appearance.