Red Sox Pitching Depth Takes Hit With Latest Setback

The Boston Red Sox’s pitching depth keeps taking hits.

Left-handed pitcher Patrick Sandoval has been working his way back from a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely he’ll return this season.

According to Chris Cotillo, Sandoval hasn’t been progressing as they hoped and has stopped throwing bullpen sessions. He’s still playing catch, but his return to the mound in 2025 is unlikely.

Hunter Dobbins are Kutter Crawford are out for the season, and Tanner Houck’s status is up in the air. Kyle Harrison is likely the next man up for the Red Sox, though he’s refining his arsenal in Triple-A Worcester. Cooper Criswell is also available, but he’s been passed over in favor of other options at times this season.

The Red Sox were already interested in trading for a starting pitcher to bolster this rotation. While the injury to Sandoval shouldn’t impact their quest to acquire a number two starter, it might spur them to add a depth option as well.

Joe Ryan, Sandy Alcantara and Dylan Cease are all names that have been floated. The Red Sox might look at pitchers in a lower tier as well following the injury to Sandoval. The Pittsburgh Pirates’ Andrew Heaney might be of interest to Boston, for example.

Sandoval signed a two-year, $18.2 million deal this offseason. The Red Sox knew he wouldn’t contribute until late in the season, if at all, when he signed. Hopefully, Sandoval will enter 2025 spring training healthy and ready to contribute.