Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet nears return from shoulder injury

Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet threw live batting practice recently, a key step in his recovery from left shoulder inflammation that has kept him out since late April.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

Boston's ace pitcher, Garrett Crochet, is slowly progressing toward a return after being sidelined since late April with left shoulder inflammation. The pitcher recently threw live batting practice, a significant step after over a month without facing hitters. While Crochet's throwing has advanced to 60 feet on flat ground, and he's thrown bullpens, a definitive return date remains elusive. He has not yet thrown off a mound, a hurdle for any pitcher nearing active duty.

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The Red Sox have been navigating a challenging period with key players on the injured list. This situation unfolds as the team attempts to gain traction, currently trailing division rivals in the standings.

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Pitcher's Path Back Continues

Garrett Crochet, a notable figure on the Red Sox roster, has been out since April 25. His placement on the injured list followed left shoulder inflammation. Recent reports indicate he has begun throwing bullpen sessions and, as of late last week, was progressing to throwing on flat ground. More recently, on Tuesday, he took the mound at Fenway Park for one inning of live batting practice. Despite these advancements, there's speculation he may require a rehab assignment before rejoining the team, underscoring the cautious approach to his recovery.

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Outfielder's Frustration

Roman Anthony, another key player, has been absent from games since May 4 due to a finger injury. He has missed 17 contests. A recent report suggests a setback in his recovery, leading to his frustration. Anthony, 22, was initially placed on the injured list with a right wrist sprain. The exact nature and impact of this setback remain somewhat vague.

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Division Rival's Blow

Meanwhile, a division competitor, the Baltimore Orioles, has lost infielder Jordan Westburg to season-ending elbow surgery. This news comes as the Orioles hold a slight lead over the Red Sox in the standings. Westburg's absence represents a significant loss for Baltimore, adding another layer to the competitive landscape.

Broader Injury Landscape

The Red Sox have several other players facing extended absences. Trevor Story is out with an abdomen issue, with a projected return in late June. Romy Gonzalez is dealing with a shoulder ailment, expected back mid-June. Pitcher Johan Oviedo is sidelined with elbow issues, slated for a return around mid-June.

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Separately, comprehensive injury reports from sources like FanGraphs and CBS Sports list additional Red Sox players with significant injuries and surgeries, including Triston Casas (knee), Kutter Crawford (wrist), Hunter Dobbins (knee), and Tanner Houck (Tommy John surgery). These reports paint a picture of a team contending with a substantial number of players unavailable due to various physical ailments. The timeline for the return of many of these players is either uncertain or stretches into the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet expected to return from his shoulder injury?
Garrett Crochet is slowly getting better after being out since late April with left shoulder pain. He recently threw batting practice, which is a big step. A return date is not set yet.
Q: What is happening with Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony?
Roman Anthony has been out since May 4 with a finger injury. He is frustrated because his recovery has hit a problem.
Q: Did any of the Red Sox's rivals also have player injuries?
Yes, the Baltimore Orioles lost player Jordan Westburg to elbow surgery. This means he will miss the rest of the season.
Q: Which other Red Sox players are injured and when might they return?
Trevor Story has an abdomen issue and might return in late June. Romy Gonzalez has a shoulder problem and is expected back mid-June. Pitcher Johan Oviedo also has elbow issues and should return around mid-June. Other players like Triston Casas and Tanner Houck are also injured.