Why Alex Cora Must Be Careful With Key Red Sox Relief Pitcher

The Boston Red Sox bullpen ranks in the top 10 in ERA, batting average against, and fWAR. They also rank in the top 10 in innings pitched. As of June 20, 2024, they ranked in the top 10 in each of those categories as well. By the end of 2024, they were in the bottom 10 in ERA.

It’s not entirely the fault of the bullpen. Starters failed to get late in games, fatigue played a factor, and the performances suffered. Justin Slaten has already missed time due to injury, placing more weight on other relievers. One of which is Greg Weissert.

Weissert has been phenomenal this season. In 36 appearances, Weissert has a 2.65 ERA and .214 batting average against. He has 17 “shutdowns” and four “meltdowns” according to FanGraphs.

He’s been excellent against lefties thus far. They’re hitting .176 against him. He made a change to his approach by throwing his fastball to the arm-side more often and has seen returns in the form of a 14.3% swinging strike rate and 58.8% groundball rate. Righties haven’t had much more luck. Righties have fared better, but still not well with a .688 OPS against him.

If this sounds familiar, it’s because it is. Through June 25th last season, Weissert appeared in 34 games and posted a 2.65 ERA. Over his next 11 games, his ERA was above eight and he was demoted to Triple-A Worcester.

This season, Weissert’s 36 appearances are tied for second most in baseball. Cracks are starting to show as well. He’s walked four hitters over his last four appearances after issuing just four walks in his previous 21 appearances. His velocity has held steady, but fatigue could be impacting his command.

Alex Cora is managing to win games. He’s using his bullpen aggressively to do so, and it’s worked over the past few weeks. At the same time, he should be careful with Weissert to ensure he’s not worn down too soon.