"No guarantees" Crochet pitches again this season

NBC Sports • July 22, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

Chris Crochet has been sidelined since late April due to a shoulder injury and a subsequent lat strain, which have significantly delayed his return to pitching for the Boston Red Sox.
Follow-up imaging showed some improvement in Crochet's shoulder but not enough for him to resume throwing, making an early return unlikely before the All-Star break in mid-July.
Crochet has stopped plyometric exercises to focus on re-strengthening his shoulder, but he remains without a clear timetable for starting a throwing progression or rehab starts.
The Red Sox, currently in the playoff race, are hopeful for Crochet's return but may need to consider him out until August or later due to the time required to rebuild arm strength and pitch count.
Fantasy baseball managers are advised to be cautious as Crochet’s recovery has been slower than expected, and he is unlikely to contribute significantly before the trade deadline in early August.

Trending Business