Red Sox Top Reliever Pitched Through Injury In 2025

The back of the Boston Red Sox’s bullpen was a strength in 2025, thanks in large part to Aroldis Chapman and Garrett Whitlock. For most of the second half of the season, when the Red Sox had a lead in the eighth inning, the two relievers combined to secure the victory.

While it looked easy at times, Whitlock was actually pitching through a calf injury for most of the second half. According to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe, Whitlock wore a compression sleeve and kinesiology tape on his calf almost every day.

Despite this, he was excellent. In the second half of the season, Whitlock allowed one earned run over 26 2/3 innings — a 0.34 ERA. He struck out 33 of 104 hitters while walking only five.

At times, the righty was noticeably slow coming off the mound after an inning, but it didn’t limit his effectiveness. His fastball velocity dipped slightly over the course of the season, but hitters had a problem with the pitch regardless.

Going into next season, Whitlock will likely keep the same role. The Red Sox extended Chapman through at least 2026, and if healthy, he’ll handle the ninth inning. If Chapman is ineffective or injured, Whitlock is likely first in line to take over closing duties.

Whitlock’s 72 innings pitched are right around his career high. In each of his two previous seasons, he spent time on the injured list after experimenting as a starting pitcher. While his arsenal might be well-rounded enough to succeed as a starter, the Red Sox are best served leaving him in the bullpen, where he’s been lights out.

A high-leverage reliever is still an area of need for the Red Sox heading into 2026, though. Luke Weaver and Devin Williams of the New York Yankees are two intriguing free agent options, but the team will explore all avenues this winter.