Red Sox Notes: Crochet, Houck, Slaten
Key Points:
- Red Sox pitchers Garrett Crochet and Tanner Houck are aiming to return this season as relievers, with Crochet throwing his second bullpen session and Houck pitching in a Double-A rehab game.
- Crochet has been sidelined for five months due to a lat strain following shoulder inflammation and struggled this season with a 6.30 ERA, though his postseason bullpen return could be pivotal for Boston.
- Houck is recovering from Tommy John surgery and progressing through rehab, with plans for a Double-A appearance followed by Triple-A, potentially returning before the regular season ends.
- Right-hander Justin Slaten has experienced a setback after resuming throwing post-injury, leading to a shutdown with no current timetable for his return.
- Slaten’s performance has been mixed since his rookie season, showing improved strikeout rates but challenges with pitch effectiveness and consistency.