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Red Sox option rookie pitcher almost immediately after Rays game
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- Red Sox option rookie pitcher almost immediately after Rays game
Red Sox option rookie pitcher almost immediately after Rays game appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Boston Red Sox (16-22) opted to become a pitching-first franchise after failing to re-sign Alex Bregman and bringing in Ranger Suarez , but injuries have forced them to do more mixing and matching than they expected by early May. With Garrett Crochet battling shoulder inflammation , the team is trying to figure out which hurlers can keep it afloat until the ace returns. The decision-makers do not think that Jake Bennett is ready to occupy a regular role on this staff.
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Boston optioned the 25-year-old left-hander to Triple-A Worcester almost immediately after his inconsistent outing against the Tampa Bay Rays (25-12), per MassLive's Christopher Smith. Reliever Justin Slaten has been recovering from an oblique strain, so this roster move seemingly hinted at his return. He still needs a bit more time, however. The Red Sox are instead recalling Jack Anderson, according to 7News Boston's Ari Alexander.
The 26-year-old righty allowed three runs across eight innings during three April appearances this season. He will try to stick around a little longer this go around. Aroldis Chapman 's excellence is boosting what is an overall shaky Boston bullpen. World Baseball Classic standout Greg Weissert continues to struggle, and Garrett Whitlock has been far from his best. Perhaps Anderson can rejuvenate the unit.
Bennett's exit creates more questions about the starting rotation, though. Following an impressive MLB debut versus the Houston Astros — allowed one run in five innings — the 2022 second-round draft pick scuffled in an 8-4 loss versus the Rays. He surrendered three runs in the second and another one in the sixth. Despite wobbling, Jake Bennett still flashed some promise in his 5 1/3 innings of work.
Nevertheless, the Sox believe the 6-foot-6 southpaw requires more seasoning in the minor leagues. Fans should get another look at him before too long. Jack Anderson will be tasked with giving the squad productive innings until it finds a long-term solution.
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The wait for Justin Slaten continues in the meantime.
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