Bobby Poyner has been lights-out for the Red Sox bullpen this season. His performance has made some wonder how he flew under the radar for so long. The Red Sox drafted Poyner in the 14th round of the 2015 MLB Draft. He is a fearless lefty that has the ability to get batters out from both sides of the plate. His numbers in the minors have been impressive. If he can keep up his early season performance then by the end of the season he could be a Cinderella story of the 2018 season.
Bobby Poyner in the Minors
In four minor league seasons Poyner has recorded a 2.34 ERA. Before making his major league debut this season, the highest level Poyner reached was AA, where he dominated. In 27 appearances for Portland last year he recorded a 0.94 ERA. In 38 innings he struck out 52 batters. That impressive campaign earned him an invitation to Spring Training, where the former Florida Gator did not disappoint. Poyner earned his spot as in Spring Training he recorded a 0.87 ERA. He’s carried that dominate performance into the regular season.
Photo Credit: NESN Staff
Poyner Excelling in the Majors
Poyner has pitched 9.2 innings in the majors this season and has an ERA of 1.86. He is averaging a strikeout an inning. Poyner has given up 12 hits this season, but has only allowed two earned runs. He spent some time on the disabled list earlier in the season costing him a spot in the bullpen. When healthy, Manager Alex Cora has not been afraid to use him in high leverage situations. Despite his impressive start, Poyner was sent down to Pawtucket when the Red Sox activated fellow reliever Hector Velazquez from the disabled list.
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Will He Be Back?
This is not the last that Red Sox fans will see of Poyner this season. If he continues to excell in the minors, then the Red Sox will find a spot for him. He has grabbed every opportunity like his career has depended on it and delivered. How long Poyner stays in Pawtucket is unknown. If Poyner can continue to pitch well then the Sox will have a choice to make. As Poyner has done throughout his career he will not make it an easy one.
