The front end of Boston’s rotation is set, but the back end is anyone’s guess.
The Boston Red Sox could face stiff competition in Spring Training for the club’s fifth starting pitcher spot.
The Red Sox are expected to start new addition Garrett Crochet as their ace on Opening Day, but at the back end of Boston’s rotation, several pitchers are vying for opportunities.
On Sunday, BoSox Injection’s Henry Blickenstaff discussed Boston’s rivalry for the fifth starter, citing it as a major narrative for the Red Sox in Spring Training.
“Bolstering the pitching staff was a key focus for the Red Sox in the offseason, and they were able to bring in several new arms to help a rotation that struggled mightily in 2024,” Blickenstaff wrote.
“Although there are many pitchers who could make starts, it’s likely that several rotation spots are already set. (Garrett) Crochet should get the ball on Opening Day, (Tanner) Houck is coming off a great season, and the Red Sox have high hopes for (Brayan) Bello.”
“Beyond that, the picture gets blurrier. (Walker) Buehler should get some starts if for no other reason than his pricey contract, but the Sox did take on some risk with that signing. That would leave (Kutter) Crawford, (Lucas) Giolito and (Cooper) Criswell fighting for the fifth spot in the rotation.”
“Spring training could be the battleground for that fight.”
All in all, the Red Sox certainly have more depth at starting pitcher than they did last season, which should help guard against a shortage of capable starters once injuries inevitably hit.
