The Boston Red Sox have finally received a long-awaited update on pitcher Garrett Crochet, who has been sidelined for nearly three months due to shoulder issues. On Friday, Crochet threw 16 pitches during a bullpen session at Camden Yards, marking his first time on the mound since experiencing a setback in his recovery from shoulder inflammation in May. This development comes at a critical juncture for the Red Sox, who are in the midst of a late-season push for a playoff spot.
While this bullpen session does not guarantee that Crochet will pitch again this season, it does provide a glimmer of hope for the Red Sox as they look to bolster their roster for the stretch run and potential postseason play. Interim manager Chad Tracy emphasized the importance of observing how Crochet feels in the days following the session. "The fact he got on the mound today and threw is a really good sign," Tracy stated. "How he comes in tomorrow will be an important piece of it. Does he feel any lingering effects that will slow him down or will he feel really good and can proceed?"
Crochet has not taken the mound for Boston since April 25, when he delivered an impressive six scoreless innings against the Baltimore Orioles. Unfortunately, shoulder soreness led to his placement on the injured list shortly thereafter. The 27-year-old initially made progress in May but was shut down again, which has made the Red Sox particularly cautious about monitoring his recovery. The team is keenly aware that his response to Friday's session will dictate the next steps in his rehabilitation process.
If Crochet passes this critical test, the Red Sox may consider scheduling another bullpen session, live batting practice, or even a rehabilitation assignment. However, time is of the essence, as the regular season is drawing to a close. Tracy remains optimistic about the possibility of Crochet returning to action before the season ends, stating, "The goal is to get him, by the end of the season, out there, if he can."
In his limited appearances this season, Crochet has posted a 6.30 ERA over six starts. This performance comes on the heels of a stellar 2025 campaign where he finished as the runner-up for the American League Cy Young Award, boasting a 2.59 ERA and leading the league with 255 strikeouts over 205 1/3 innings. If he can regain that form, Crochet could significantly impact the Red Sox's chances in the postseason.
Given the tight timeline, the Red Sox may need to adjust their expectations for Crochet's role upon his return. While it may be challenging to stretch him out enough to serve as a traditional starter, he could still be a valuable asset as a multi-inning reliever or a strategic option against tough left-handed hitters. Even a limited version of Crochet could provide a boost to the team's pitching depth as they head into October.
In addition to Crochet's progress, the Red Sox received positive news regarding Tanner Houck, who has successfully completed a simulated game and is set to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Portland on Tuesday. Houck, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2025, is also expected to return as a reliever. Furthermore, Johan Oviedo, who has been out since April with a flexor tendon strain, may also begin a rehab assignment soon. Tracy noted the importance of having experienced pitchers available as the team navigates the final stretch of the season.
While the Red Sox cannot rely on these reinforcements just yet, the fact that Crochet has returned to the mound is a significant step forward in his recovery journey. The next crucial test will be how his shoulder responds in the aftermath of this session.
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