Tag Archives: Brian Johnson

The Greatest Red Sox Legends by Uniform Number: 61-68

As the numbers extend higher, the pickings continue to thin. Fewer and fewer players have worn the numbers as they climb into the sixties and beyond. The numbers have also generally been worn for shorter amounts of time, assigned to rookies just making the Majors. If the rookie succeeds, they usually change their number the following season. If they don’t make it, well, they aren’t wearing the number long. Therefore, I am going to do more than just five players at a time and close out this series of articles with just two more articles. Unfortunately, no Red Sox player has ever worn the number 69, so here are the greatest to wear the numbers 61-68.

Number 61 – Bronson Arroyo

Bronson Arroyo is one of the few players who stuck with his high number, wearing 61 for his entire career. The Red Sox grabbed Arroyo off waivers before the 2003 season, and what a find it was.

Arroyo pitched in Pawtucket for almost the entire first season and threw a perfect game down there, just the fourth in International League history. He pitched 17.1 innings for the Red Sox out of the bullpen, allowing just four earned runs. This earned him a spot on the postseason roster, where he performed well.

Arroyo earned himself a rotation spot in 2004, making 29 starts. He finished the year 10-9 with a solid 4.03 ERA and 1.22 WHIP. He made a good start in the ALDS, allowing two runs on three hits over six innings. In the ALCS, he was involved in the famous Alex Rodriguez “slap” play at first base.

In 2005, Arroyo made 32 starts and pitched over 200 innings, starting a streak of nine straight seasons with 199 innings or more thrown. He went 14-10 with a 4.51 ERA in the regular season.

The Red Sox mistakenly traded Arroyo in the offseason for Wily Mo Pena, but he left his mark on Boston.

Honorable Mentions: Brian Johnson, Felix Doubront, Clay Buchholz (2007-09)

Alex Rodriguez illegally slaps the ball out of Bronson Arroyo’s glove as he went to tag him out running to first base in game 6 of the ALCS.

Number 62 – Jon Lester

This is the second number Lester has been chosen for, as he was the winner for his typical number 31. Jon Lester wore the number 62 during his rookie season of 2006. Once he was an established Major Leaguer following the season, he changed to the lower number.

A highly touted prospect, Lester was rated as the 22nd best prospect in all of baseball entering 2006. The former second round pick was coming off an excellent season in AA Portland. He began the year in Pawtucket and posted a 2.70 ERA over 11 starts before being called up to Boston.

Lester would go 7-2 for the big club that season, although with a mediocre ERA. However, he pitched very well for the first half of his time with the Red Sox before possibly hitting a wall. Young pitchers don’t generally throw many innings, so the amount of innings and the impact of the innings being pitched may have caught up to him. Through his first eight starts he was 6-2 with a 2.38 ERA. In that eighth start he allowed just one hit over eight shutout innings against the Kansas City Royals.

Although he faded later in the year, Lester was still 7-2 and helped add another reliable starter for over a month.

Honorable Mention: Rich Hill (2015)

Number 63 – Junichi Tazawa

Tazawa was given an honorable mention at the number 36 for his work from 2013-2016. However, before that he was wearing the number 63 from 2009-2012. He is here for his work in 2012 alone.

Junichi Tazawa at one time was a pretty decent prospect for the Red Sox as a starting pitcher. He made his debut in 2009 and got the loss against the Yankees in his first game. He did not fare much better after that either, making four starts and two relief appearances total.

In 2010, he blew out his arm in April and missed the whole season. When he came back in 2011 it was as a reliever. He only made three appearances for the Red Sox that season. With the slim pickings at the number, Tazawa earns the top spot on the strength of 2012 alone.

Tazawa pitched 37 games in 2012, allowing just seven runs over 44 innings. He struck out 45 batters while posting a 1.43 ERA and 0.95 WHIP. He was arguably the best reliever on that mess of a team.

Honorable Mentions: Justin Masterson, Robby Scott

Number 64 – Will Middlebrooks

Will Middlebrooks arrived in 2012 as the Red Sox best hitting prospect. He was ranked number 51 by Baseball America at the start of the year and only improved his standing as the year wore on. After raking at Pawtucket for a month, Middlebrooks was called up and made his Major League debut on May 2nd.

Middlebrooks hit all season for the Red Sox, bashing 15 home runs over 267 at-bats. He batted .288 and posted a slugging percentage of .509 at the big league level that rookie season. This would be the only season he wore the number 64, and it was easily the best season of his career. However, he did win a World Series ring with the club the following season.

Number 65 – Steven Wright

Wright might be the unlikeliest winner of two different numbers, having gotten the nod at number 35. There was little competition at that number, and there is zero competition at this one. The only other player I noticed who contributed anything pitched 3.1 shutout innings in 1998.

Steven Wright wore the number 65 for the 2014 season. That year he threw 21 innings, mostly in relief, and had his first Major League success. Even with the knuckleball, Wright struck out 22 batters against just four walks. He posted a 2.57 ERA and 1.19 WHIP that season for the Red Sox. He has worn the number 35 ever since.

Honorable Mention: Carlos Valdez

Sep 7, 2014 Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Steven Wright (65) pitches against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Number 66 – Bobby Poyner

As you can see, there isn’t a lot to choose from at some of these numbers. Not to take away from Poyner, he did a good job for the Red Sox this past season, but he has only thrown 22.1 innings. Only five players have ever donned the uniform 66 for the Red Sox.

A left-handed reliever, Poyner had a fantastic spring and surprisingly pitched his way onto the ballclub. He pitched effectively over 20 appearances, going 1-0 with a 3.22 ERA. His WHIP was an excellent 1.12 and he struck out 24 batters against only three walks. The low walks are an excellent total for a lefty reliever, as they generally walk a fair amount of guys.

Honorable Mention: Daniel Nava (2012 only), Drake Britton

Number 67 – Brandon Workman

Workman is one of four Red Sox to ever wear the number, and the only one to play in more than 11 games. He has had his positives for the club though, this past postseason aside.

Workman first appeared with the big club in 2013. He struck out 47 batters over 41.2 innings that season, making three starts and 17 relief appearances. He had a 6-3 record despite a 4.97 ERA. Workman did make three straight good starts to close out July. A few rough outings skewed his overall solid body of work. Workman then pitched 8.2 innings without an earned run over seven postseason appearances. His work out of the bullpen certainly helped the Red Sox as they won their third World Series in nine years.

The next season, Workman had a 3.27 ERA at the end of June before the wheels came off. He finished 1-10 with a 5.17 ERA. Workman wound up hurting his arm and it was a long road back to the Majors.

He found his way back in 2017 and had a 3.18 ERA over 33 relief appearances. This past season he wore the number 67 for a bit and the number 44, going 6-1 with a 3.27 ERA in the regular season. This gives him a 3.22 ERA over 81 innings since making it back to the big leagues.

Number 68 – Matt Barnes

Barnes wore the number 68 for his first four seasons before switching numbers for the 2018 season. Of course, 2018 is his best season to date, but he did enough prior to this season. He is the only player worth mentioning at the number.

Barnes debuted late in 2014, then struggled as a rookie in 2015. He had an up and down 2016, but showed some promise as he struck out over a batter per inning. He finished 4-3 with a 4.05 ERA.

In 2017 he took another step forward, leading into this past season. Barnes was 7-3 with a 3.88 ERA in 2017, posting a career best 1.22 WHIP. He struck out 10.7 batters per nine innings, surpassed only by this past seasons 14 strike outs per nine.

Jul 6, 2016 Matt Barnes (68) throws a pitch against the Rangers at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Red Sox Vs. Marlins Preview

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Although this series is only two games, this could prove to be the spark this team needs after their sweep at the hands of the Rays.

While this series might not be a marquee match up, this Marlins team boasts the lowest scoring offense while allowing the second most runs in the National League. The Red Sox swept this club earlier this season and have a 2-0 record this season against them.

The Marlins have a disastrous 53-79 record. While they are clearly in a rebuild, they are trending upward, with series splits against the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees. In total they have won five of their last nine games.

The pitching matchups should be intriguing. Game one sees Brian Johnson ( 6-4, 4.33 era) against the electric Jose Urena ( 4-12, 4.50 era) Johnson did not last long against the Indians, lasting 4.1 innings while allowing 3 earned runs off 5 hits and 1 walk. He mustered up 1 strikeout.

Urena on the other hand pitched amazing his last start. He played a complete game against the Nationals, only giving up 1 earned run on 2 hits and 2 walks. He also struck out 4 hitters. Urena managed to stir up some controversy over plunking future stud Ronald Acuna Jr. in the first at bat of the game.

Game two sees Pitching phenom David Price ( 14-6 3.50 era) against Trevor Richards ( 3-7 4.23 era) Price was lights out against Cleveland. He lasted 8 innings of work with 0 earned runs, striking out 7 while only giving up 3 hits. Richards lasted 5.1 innings against the Yankees only giving up 2 earned runs on 3 hits and 3 walks while striking out 9 batters.

Player to watch for: J.T Realmuto

He has clearly been the best player for the Marlins all season long. After wanting to be traded last winter, building his stock this year only heightens his demands. He has become a strong trade candidate for this offseason.

Be prepared to see some of the brighter aspects of this Marlins team come out and ready to perform.

How the Red Sox are Solving their Injury Problems

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With a fair amount of talent currently on the disabled list, how is this team filling the absences? How are these “role players” preforming under the pressure of expectations from Boston fans and media?

In recent weeks the Red Sox have placed numerous everyday players on the disabled list. The versatility of the bench was questioned, and put to the test. How have these players preformed? What will their roles look like once these players come back from injury at full strength?

The starting rotation

It’s no secret that the starting rotation has taken a beating this season. Despite the pile of injuries it seems like they are pitching better than ever. With Cy Young candidate Chris Sale back on the 10 day disabled list with shoulder inflammation, one man has truly risen to the occasion. Haters rejoice to none other than David Price.

He has been chewed up, spit out, pummeled, and completely shammed by the Boston media and “fans” (bandwagoners we know who you are). In his last 7 starts, he sports a 5-0 record with an incredible 1.50 ERA with 7 walks and 48 strikeouts to mold a 0.88 whip. For a pitcher that everyone likes to use as their punching bag, he’s finally shutting them all up. Once Sale comes back expect him to be the number 2 starter in the rotation.

Another starting pitcher that seems to have been unnoticed is Eduardo Rodriguez. After being on the dl for a while due to an ankle injury. Rodriguez has finally made a few rehab starts. He made a rehab start against the New Hampshire Fisher cats on Monday. He threw 63 pitches (39 for strikes) in four shutout innings, including 8 strikeouts.

A huge contributor in his absence is Brian Johnson. Although his last start was a rocky one, over his last 7 he sports a 3-1 record, with a 4.01 ERA to go along with 11 walks, 33 strikeouts in 33.2 innings pitched. While his numbers don’t justify just how well he has performed in the rotation, expect to see him in a Hector Velazquez role once E-rod comes back.

Infield questions??

With Ian Kinsler being reactivated last Friday, the team had some backups in store. Brock Holt and Eduardo Nunez have stepped up big this season. Holt is hitting a modest .265 with 3 homers and 32 rbi’s in 86 games this season. in his 52 starts coming at second base, he has zero errors (1 all season). He is the definition of a true utility player. He has been one of the few shining stars in that position with Dustin Pedroia still fighting his nagging knee injury.

The other player who has made contributions at second is Eduardo Nunez. The 31-year-old has played 74 games at the position. With a .257 average, 7 homers, 38 rbi’s Nunez has been consistent this season. While he thrives more in the left side of the field, he has been a good player in the lineup. The team also has guys like Brandon Phillips and Tzu-Wei Lin in the minor leagues waiting for their shot.

Christian Vazquez has been working with Sox legend Jason Veritek while recovering from a pinky injury. In the meantime, Sandy Leon and Blake Swihart have played nicely. Leon gets the majority of reps behind the plate. While his offensive numbers are not worth mentioning, his defense stands out. He currently has a catchers ERA of 3.13 in 69 games behind the plate. Along the way he even received a personal endorsement from former CY Young winner Rick Porcello.

Blake Swihart hasn’t seen much time in the majors this season. Most appearances have come from pinch hitting. While he hasn’t been a huge factor this season, he still brings versatility if and when the team calls his name. Truly a team player.

How does this affect the team chemistry moving forward? Will this translate to a deep playoff run? Find out soon!

All stats referenced is from mlb.com.

Brian Johnson Is Better Suited For Rotation

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Despite Drew Pomeranz struggles this season, Alex Cora said he would remain in the starting rotation. Following the acquisition of right-hander Nathan Eovaldi from Tampa Bay, this presumably leaves Brian Johnson without a spot in the rotation. If the Red Sox follow through with those plans, they will be making a serious mistake.

Minor League Career

Brian Johnson came through the system as a starting pitcher following a two-way career in college. He made 103 appearances during his minor league career, all starts. Not once, ever, did he pitch out of the bullpen during his professional career until this season. He made one start for the Red Sox in 2015 and five starts in 2017 in addition to his 103 minor league starts.

During Johnson’s time in the minor leagues, he won 32 games against 26 losses. More importantly, he pitched to a stellar 2.69 ERA and 1.13 WHIP. Opponents batted just .216 against Johnson. This wasn’t just beating up on the low minors, as Johnson was 10-2 with a 1.75 ERA in AA Portland. In AAA, Johnson still posted a very good 3.18 ERA. Minor league success does not mean success in the big leagues, but it shows his success as a starting pitcher.

Brian Johnson enjoyed great success as a starting pitcher in the minor leagues.

Headed to the Bullpen

After six seasons of exclusively pitching as a starter, the Red Sox put Johnson in their bullpen to begin the season. This was the right move to make as they didn’t have room in their starting rotation. Johnson was out of minor league options so he had to be on the club or would be open to waivers. The bullpen did not agree with Johnson, however, which really isn’t a surprise. Johnson is not the type of pitcher who typically succeeds in relief; he doesn’t throw hard, he isn’t deceptive, and doesn’t have a funky delivery from the left side. His stuff isn’t going to play up out of the pen.

Johnson made 21 appearances out of the bullpen, totaling 30 innings pitched. His ERA was much too high for a starter, let alone a reliever at 5.10. He was relegated to mop-up roles, and deservedly so. He put lots of men on base, posting a 1.47 WHIP. The only thing he did better as a reliever was striking out a few more batters.

A Spot Opens Up

Brian Johnson got his chance to start again due to injuries in the Red Sox rotation, and he took advantage. Over six starts, Johnson has thrown 30 innings – the exact same amount of innings he has thrown in relief. While working up his arm strength, Johnson has pitched to a 1.80 ERA over his 30 innings starting. His WHIP, although not great, is much lower at 1.33. He sports a 5.10 ERA relieving, but a 1.80 ERA starting, both in 30 innings. The guy is just built to start. I’m not saying he will post a 1.80 ERA for the rest of the season if starting, but he will pitch better there than in relief.

Johnson’s best outing yet was his last one, pitching 5.2 shutout innings against the Twins. The start before he allowed two runs, but neither was earned over five innings. He’s getting stronger the more they stretch his arm out.

Drew Pomeranz

Drew Pomeranz, on the other hand, has an ERA of 6.91 this season as a starter. Why is he pitching again? Yes, he was very good last year, but he has not been the same pitcher. Throwing a fastball in the upper-80’s, it practically screams “hit me” when he misses his spot. Pomeranz only has one outing all year in which he allowed less than three runs. Over his last five starts, Pomeranz is 0-3 with an unsightly 8.57 ERA. Opponents have a slash line of .330/.425/.560/.985 during that time against him. Basically, the average hitter against him is turned into an MVP candidate lately.

Unlike Johnson, Pomeranz has success as a reliever, especially at the Major League level. He didn’t pan out as a starter at first and was moved to the bullpen in 2014. He didn’t have to worry about pitching longer and his stuff played up. In 10 relief appearances that season, Pomeranz had a 1.62 ERA and 1.08 WHIP. The next season, Pomeranz pitched to a 2.61 ERA and 1.07 WHIP in 44 relief appearances. Compare this to his 4.63 ERA and 1.30 WHIP as a starting pitcher that season and it is clear Pomeranz has had much more success in the bullpen, by and large.

Maybe something isn’t right with Pomeranz and he won’t be effective anywhere, but that certainly doesn’t mean the Red Sox should be trotting him back out to the mound every five days to get lit up. Try him in the bullpen, where he has been effective before and see how he does.

It makes no sense to throw a guy pitching well like Johnson back in the bullpen, especially when he has had zero professional success in that role and when Pomeranz is stinking up the mound.

Featured picture from FanRag Sports

Top 5 Ways the Red Sox Should Improve the Bullpen

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We’re now officially in the dog days of summer, and a familiar weakness has been glaring for the current Red Sox roster: the bullpen. Earlier this morning, the Sox announced the activation of Tyler Thornburg, who has spent close to eternity on the DL since being traded from the Milwaukee Brewers in 2016. Thornburg will surely bring a new presence to the ‘pen, but the problems run a bit deeper than one man can fix.

In order for the Sox to sure up their suspect bullpen, a few key moves need to be made. The race for the pennant is well underway and this team needs reinforcements. Here are the top five ways the Sox can restock the pantry and be ready for the storm come September and October.

5. Move Steven Wright Out of the Rotation

Courtesy of Getty Images

Steven Wright has anchored the starting rotation since his return to the lineup earlier this season. In four games started, he is 2-1 with a 3.38 ERA. Over 40 total innings pitched, he has given up 30 hits, only 15 earned runs while walking 20 batters, and striking out 31. Wright’s knuckleball has been nothing short of brilliant thus far, minus the shelling he received against the Mariners in his last start before landing back on the DL with a bum knee.

The belief is that Wright could return to full health within the next two weeks. But with the starters doing their part to produce quality outings, Wright’s services may be better utilized out of the ‘pen. After all, he was extremely effective as a long-term reliever when he first rejoined the team earlier this season. His ability to provide stability after a shaky start – coupled with his borderline un-hittable knuckle pitch – makes him much more of a valued asset in later innings of the game.

4. Trade for Kyle Barraclough

Courtesy of Elite Sports NY

The Miami Marlins have not had many bright spots in their 2018 campaign. With a current record of 35-52, they are festering in the cellar of the NL East. Miami is a full 15.5 games back from first place. The Marlins are unquestionably out of the playoff picture for this season, so they will be evaluating their current roster for trade pieces. Kyle Barraclough sits at the top of this list like a cherry on top of a melting sundae.

The Marlins don’t have many valuable pieces they can sell for younger, rising talent, but Barraclough is without a doubt catching the eye of many pennant-chasing teams as the trade deadline draws near. This season, the 28-year-old hurler has somewhat quietly put together a dominant showing, amassing a 1.17 ERA in 38 innings pitched. The accolades continue – he has allowed only 14 hits, two home runs, and 19 walks while striking out 42 batters.

The Red Sox have been rumored to be interested in the right-handed pitcher in recent weeks. Barraclough would provide extra insurance to the backend of the bullpen, currently anchored by the likes of Joe Kelly and Craig Kimbrel. A flashy arm, like the one Barraclough possesses, would elevate this ‘pen to a dominant status.

3. Trade for Rasiel Iglesias

Courtesy of ESPN

Rasiel Iglesias is in a similar situation as Barraclough; his team is dwelling quite steadily in the cellar of the division and are evaluating their roster for trade pieces. Iglesias is clearly a guy with surefire talent that could command a hefty return on the trade market.

The right-handed closer for the Reds has been the last stop in the Red’s bullpen for the season, notching 16 saves and a 2.63 ERA. In 37 innings pitched, Iglesias has allowed only 26 hits, 6 of which left the ballpark, and 13 bases on balls. But his 42 strikeouts speak for themselves – this guy can really get it done.

Iglesias is yet another arm the Red Sox have been linked with in trade rumors. He seems like he would fit snug like a glove as a setup man for Kimbrel. But if the Sox want to grab this guy, they have to act quickly. Iglesias has been linked with other teams, including the Wahington Nationals and Houston Astros, all hoping to provide reinforcements to their ‘pen before the postseason. Iglesias won’t be available for much longer, so it’s time for the Sox to make their move.

2. Move Drew Pomeranz to the Bullpen

Courtesy of Getty Images

There aren’t many Sox fans who can say they’ve been satisfied with Drew Pomeranz’s performance this year. Frankly, I’m not sure if Red Sox management has a differing opinion. Pomeranz has been a real stinker, a true shell of himself from his former all-star days with the San Diego Padres. His 6.81 ERA leaves much to be desired, and the team seemed forced to give him some time on the DL just to move him out of the starting rotation.

The question now remains, should he even be allowed back into the rotation once he is “healthy” again?

Chris Sale, David Price, Rick Porcello, and Eduardo Rodriguez are the pitchers on the roster who are locks for starting slots moving forward. That leaves one final spot to round out the rotation, and you have to believe it is up for grabs. There are at least three pitchers, including Pomeranz, who will be vying for that role. The other two are Wright and Brian Johnson. Both Pomeranz and Wright have had success in a Red Sox uniform in the starting rotation. But this season has them better slatted for relief work. That leaves one man for the job.

1. Promote Brian Johnson to the Starting Rotation

(AP Photo/Derek Hamilton)

Brian Johnson represents the exact opposite of Wright and Pomeranz; he brings much more value to the starting rotation than to the bullpen. Johnson has provided spot-starts for Boston in recent weeks while Pomeranz and Wright work towards better health. He certainly has made the most of them. Though Alex Cora has been quick to yank him out on his short leash, Johnson has offered the backend of the rotation a bit of stability that the other two pitchers have not. In his past two starts, he has allowed a combined three earned runs in close to nine innings pitched. In four games started this season, he has allowed no more than two earned runs in any outing.

However, his splits out of the bullpen have been less impressive. Though he has still shown to be an effective reliever for Boston, he has been exposed at times. Recall the extra-inning game in Toronto when he was called in and promptly allowed the game-winning two-run blast. Johnson was shelled at Fenway Park just 10 days earlier by the subpar Kansas City Royals. He allowed three hits and an equal number of home runs in only one inning of work.

The numbers don’t lie. Johnson has enjoyed moderate success in a starter’s role and been relatively susceptible in relief work. With Pomeranz and Wright scuffling to find their way in the rotation, the open spot is for Johnson’s taking. In the coming weeks, we will see if Alex Cora and company reward him with that prize.

Carson Smith: Bounce Back Season Or Back To The DL?

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While his start to the season has proved to be a rocky one at best, will he be able to turn it around?

For Carson Smith, his recovery from Tommy John surgery is over 2 years in the making. While landing himself on the disabled list yet again has stirred up some controversy. After leaving Monday’s 6-5 loss in the end of the 8th, he threw his glove during a tantrum which resulted the injury.

On Wednesday, Smith said in a statement: ” “I think my shoulder’s tired in general, just from pitching. I’ve thrown a lot lately and I think my arm was just tired.” Later that day, manager Alex Cora made a surprisingly different statement when asked about smith’s comments: “I don’t agree with it. On a daily basis we talk to pitchers and how they feel. If they don’t think they can pitch that day, we stay away from them.” He added, “It caught me by surprise. If he felt that way he should’ve told it to us or he should’ve mentioned it.”

While they handle the injury, the bullpen still has guys like Kimbrel,Kelly, and hopefully a bounce back week from guys such as : Johnson, and Hembree. While the bullpen hasn’t lived up to expectations, it’s still a long season. Combined, the bullpen sports a 6-4 record with a 3.63 combined ERA in just over 100 innings of relief work. While also tallying 121 strikeouts combined.

Smith is responsible for a 1-1 record with a 3.77 ERA through 14.1 innings pitched and striking out 18. After a fantastic showing in his Red Sox debut last season, the numbers haven’t matched up.

The latest update:

Smith was placed on the 10 day Dl as of yesterday. The team also recalling relief pitcher Bobby Poyner from AAA Pawtucket. Also completing the Deven Marerro trade by acquiring LHP Josh Taylor today as well. How both the team and Smith himself handles this situation remains to be seen. Soon enough, time will tell if Smith is bust or bounce back material.

Early Impressions of the Red Sox Starters

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Red Sox Starters so Far

Through the season’s first few games, the Red Sox are 4-1. They’ve received great pitching from their bullpen and starters. Their offense has been good, but a few players are off to slow starts. The big three of this Sox rotation, which had many questions, has been dominant. The Red Sox starters so far have shown why pitching could be this team’s strength.

Photo Credit: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Question Marks for the Red Sox Starters

Entering the season the Red Sox Rotation had two big questions. Could David Price return to his dominant form? Also, which Rick Porcello would show up in 2018? Price was dominant in his first start of the season against the Rays his former team. He threw seven shutout innings and did not walk anybody. Porcello did not shut out the Rays but he was also dominated as he only allowed one run. The performance of these two will be key as the season goes on. Two of these three have won a Cy Young and for Sale it’s only a matter of time. That’s how dominant they could be.

Photo Credit: Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire

Expected Reinforcements

In the coming weeks the Red Sox will see the return of Drew Pomeranz and Eduardo Rodriguez. Their replacements, Brian Johnson and Hector Velazquez, performed well in their first starts. Johnson allowed one run in six innings of work against the Marlins, and Velazquez allowed one run over five and two-thirds against the Rays. Once the Sox injured starters return, Johnson will go back to the bullpen, and Velazquez possibly the minors. They have shown in their first starts how deep this team can be.

(Photo/Lynne Sladky

What to Expect Going Forward

While the Red Sox pitching is off to a stellar start, they aren’t facing overpowering lineups. The Rays and Marlins are both not expected to make the postseason, and had franchise stars traded in the off-season. The true test for this pitching staff will come once they play teams such as the Yankees, Astros, and Indians. A good start is important, especially when they are missing Pomeranz, who is coming off a sixteen win season, and Rodriguez, who could be the best fifth starter in baseball. These early games have shown the potential of this rotation and just how dominant it can be.

2018 Outlook for Brian Johnson

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Injured Starters

With Injuries to Drew Pomeranz and Eduardo Rodriguez, left-hander Brian Johnson will start the season in the rotation. He was expected to start the season in the bullpen since he is out of options. It has been a long and difficult road for Johnson. The Red Sox drafted him in the first round of the 2012 MLB draft 31st overall. Johnson was once considered a top prospect. He seemed poised for big things after going 10-2 in his second season in the minors. Since then, he has not had any easy road to the big leagues. Now he has his chance to show baseball why the Red Sox have stuck with him.

Photo Credit: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images

Brian Johnson’s Journey

When the Sox drafted Johnson they had high expectations. Since then Johnson has had an eventful career. In his fourth minor league start, the former first round pick took a line drive off the face causing multiple fractures. Three years later Johnson made his MLB debut against the Houston Astros, only to leave that start because of numbness in his hand. This injury prevented him from making his case to be in the Red Sox 2016 rotation. Then baseball became secondary, as while at home he was the victim of a car jacking in which a gun was shot at his feet. With Johnson’s place in the organization up in the air he developed an anxiety disorder. This caused him to step away from baseball for six weeks and seek treatment.

Photo Credit: Charles Krupa/ AP Photo

Brian Johnson Bounces Back

The former first round pick returned to the Sox after almost retiring. Last year he was impressive in his limited opportunities. 2017 was not easy for Johnson, as in the minors he was again hit by a line drive in the head. But he didn’t miss a start. He appeared in five games, including two starts. In his Fenway Park debut he pitched a complete game shutout. The only other Red Sox pitcher to do that is a guy by the name of Pedro Martinez. Johnson doesn’t overpower hitters as his fastball tops out at 90 MPH. During Spring Training he has shown the Red Sox he could work the strike soon and had a 2.35 ERA the lowest on the team.

AP Photo/Derik Hamilton

What to Expect

Johnson is not expected to stay in the rotation all season. He will return to the bullpen once Pomeranz or Rodriguez are healthy. The Sox expect him to be a big part of the bullpen and make occasional spot starts. If the Sox had elected not to add Johnson to the Opening Day roster, they could have lost him to another team. Johnson has earned his spot with his performance. Johnson’s path to the big leagues is truly remarkable. He doesn’t take anything for granted, and will be motivated next year as he looks to add another chapter to a career that seemed like it could be over.

What If Another Starting Pitcher Gets Hurt?

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It’s only spring training, but the Boston Red Sox starting rotation has already has its injury woes. Last week, manager Alex Cora announced that both Eduardo Rodriguez and Steven Wright were not likely to be ready for Opening Day. To make matters worse, Drew Pomeranz recently left his first spring training appearance with forearm tightness. Pomeranz says he’s fine, but what if another starting pitcher gets hurt? Do the Red Sox have the depth to handle such an injury?

What If Another Starting Pitcher Gets Hurt?

This article may read like an overreaction, simply because Pomeranz said he’s fine. There’s no reason to doubt him, so right now he probably is. However, Pomeranz has a history of arm injuries and fatigue, so it’s still worth looking at what the Sox would do without him. Right off the bat, it seems like the Sox have two main options: stay the course or sign a free agent.

Option One: Stay the Course

As things currently stand, the Red Sox will need one of Brian Johnson, Hector Velasquez, or Roenis Elias to take the fifth spot in the rotation. Each one has their pros and cons, but the Red Sox can likely survive in spite of the spot starter.

If the Red Sox need two spot starters, this task becomes considerably harder. Pomeranz isn’t a Cy Young caliber pitcher, but he’s leaps and bounds better than Johnson, Velasquez, or Elias. More pressure would fall on the offense, as they’d probably have to bail out the pitching to an extent two out of every five games.

Johnson and Velasquez both have proven that they can keep the Red Sox in games, so having both in the rotation wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. However, relying on two minor league caliber pitchers isn’t ideal, and the Red Sox will likely check out the open market.

Option Two: Sign a Free Agent

Jake Arrieta is a free agent, but probably won’t be a Red Sox

Image credit: NBC Sports

The Red Sox organization is very adamant about staying under the luxury tax, which means Jake Arrieta will not be a member of the team. Boston has roughly $8 million dollars to spend before hitting the luxury tax threshold, and Arrieta won’t sign for that.

Alex Cobb and Lance Lynn are the only other solid starters left on the market, but both would likely force the Red Sox to exceed the luxury tax. If they do that, they’ll drop ten spots in the upcoming MLB draft. Additionally, both players have received qualifying offers, which means signing one of those two would make the Sox forfeit their third highest draft pick.

Depending on how desperate the Red Sox are, they might bite the bullet and sign one of those three regardless. However, if the Red Sox truly want to stay under the luxury tax, they’d have to get creative.

Getting Creative

Clay Buchholz would be the return nobody asked for

Image credit: ESPN

The Red Sox could look into acquiring former Sox John Lackey and Clay Buchholz, but both guys have their limits. Lackey is 39 and coming off one of the worst seasons of his career. He’s openly debated retirement before, and might not have anything left in the tank. As for Buchholz, the Red Sox should avoid him at all costs. Red Sox Nation was on that roller coaster for the better part of a decade, there’s no need to get on that ride again.

Kyle Kendrick is also an option, albeit a very low upside one. The Red Sox thought enough of him to bring him in last year, but he woefully underperformed. In a year where the Red Sox constantly needed a spot starter, Kendrick was unable to step up. He fell behind Johnson and Velasquez on the depth chart, but he does have a record of major league success. If the Red Sox believe last year was a fluke, then perhaps they’ll bring him back.

There aren’t many good options outside the organization, but one player they could check out is Brett Anderson. Anderson once had a very promising career, and was actually traded to the Colorado Rockies for Pomeranz back in 2013. He had success with the Oakland Athletics and the Los Angeles Dodgers, but injuries have limited him. He’s only pitched 66.2 innings since 2015, and he hasn’t looked that great in any of them. Still, the Sox could kick the tires to see if there’s any magic left in the 30-year old.

Which Option Is Best?

Truthfully, the best option is to stay the course. Getting creative is asking for trouble, as all of those options are high risk. The need for starting pitching depth isn’t large enough to justify the cost of Arrieta, Cobb, or Lynn. Having two spot starters in the rotation isn’t ideal, but this Red Sox team is built well enough to survive. As long as the starter can keep the game competitive for the first five innings, the rest of the unit should be able to pick up the slack.

Cover Image: SI.com

Can the Red Sox Win with Spot Starts?

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Starting pitching is one of the most injury-riddled positions in baseball. The throwing motion itself is inherently unnatural, so injuries plague the position. Last week, Red Sox management announced that both Eddie Rodriguez and Steven Wright are unlikely to be ready for Opening Day. This means the Sox will be relying on spot starters entering the season, which begs the question: can the Red Sox win with spot starts?

Can the Red Sox Win with Spot Starts?

How Long Will They Need Him?

This article isn’t going to be about who the spot starter will be – that’s already been analyzed here – but more about how the team around him will perform. E-Rod’s offseason knee surgery has been public news for a while, and he’s expected to be back in early to late May.

Wright, however, seems to be further along than E-Rod. He’s already been throwing off flat surfaces, and is expected to transition to throwing off a mound within a week. Knee injuries are tricky, but let’s conservatively assume he’ll be ready in a bit under two months time.

With that conservative estimate, the Red Sox will likely need to use their fifth starter for three or four trips through the rotation. Let’s take a look at what those starts might look like.

First Run Through Rotation: the Miami Marlins

Whoever the fifth starter is won’t have to worry about Giancarlo Stanton…yet

Image credit: New York Times

The Red Sox begin their season with six straight games, so the spot starter will be needed early. However, his first start will be against arguably the worst team in baseball.

The Miami Marlins are a certified mess. The team is under new ownership and is in full rebuild mode. After finishing 2017 with an underwhelming 77-85 record, the Marlins have gotten considerably worse. They sent away National League MVP Giancarlo Stanton as well as All-Star caliber players in Dee Gordon and Marcell Ozuna, just to name a few.

This team is so talent-barren that the Pawtucket Red Sox could probably beat them. It really doesn’t matter if Brian Johnson, Hector Velasquez, or a random fan in the stands is the starting pitcher. The Red Sox are winning this one.

Second Run Through Rotation: Not Needed

Five games later, the Red Sox are scheduled to play the New York Yankees. The Yankees are the primary threat to the Red Sox chances of winning the AL East, and every game matters. However, even though the Yankees are five games later, the Sox don’t necessarily have to pitch their fifth starter.

The schedule gets a bit easier after starting the season with six straight games. The Sox have April 4^th off, and then play every other day until facing the Yankees on April 10^th. The Sox are currently set to have David Price, Drew Pomeranz, and Rick Porcello pitch in the three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Team ace Chris Sale is scheduled to pitch the final game of the six-game opening stretch on April 3^rd. This leaves Price, Pomeranz, and Porcello to handle the Rays. Thanks to the rest days, the Sox could skip the fifth starters turn in the rotation altogether.

This will almost certainly happen, as doing this wouldn’t force Sale to throw on short rest. On the contrary, Sale will actually be on a full week of rest due to all the days off. The Red Sox will have their top three pitchers set to face the rival Yankees, and it would be foolish to play a spot starter over Sale, Price, or Pomeranz.

The Next Two Runs Through the Rotation

Following their cozy stretch of three rest games in three days, things get hectic for the Red Sox. Boston’s set to play in 13 straight games, starting with their series against the Yankees. This type of run is very abnormal for April, and the spot starter will certainly be needed during this run.

It’s tough to imagine Wright being out any longer than the fourth run through the rotation, so this should be the last time the spot starter is needed. As things currently stand, the fifth starter is set to face the Baltimore Orioles and the Los Angeles Angels.

While neither one of these teams is in the elite level of, say, the Houston Astros, both teams are certainly capable of beating Boston. Each team boasts a solid group of talent led by one superstar. The Orioles have Manny Machado and the Angels have Mike Trout. Both players can dominate the best of the best, never mind the likes of the spot starters.

That being said, don’t chalk these two games up as losses. All three potential spot starters have shown that they can keep games competitive, and that’s all they need to do. As long as they don’t get shelled, the Red Sox team around them could easily be enough to steal a few wins.

Just Make It to the Bullpen

Craig Kimbrel should remain one of the best relievers in baseball

Image credit: SI.com

The spot starter won’t be asked to pitch a no-hitter, just to make it through the fifth inning. If they can hold opponents to three or four runs through five innings, then they’ve done their job. The Red Sox bullpen can take it from there, and they should be hard to hit.

While they don’t have the depth they had late last season, this Red Sox bullpen should still be one of the best. For the early innings, Matt Barnes has shown he can be a good bridge arm, so long as the pressure isn’t high. Nobody knows what roles Joe Kelly and Brandon Workman will have, but they’ve both proven capable of shutting down top talent with their fastballs. While he’s normally not an inspiring option, Heath Hembree is actually surprisingly amazing in April. Since 2016, he’s only allowed two earned runs in 21.2 innings.

If those four can make it to the eighth inning, Carson Smith and Craig Kimbrel can easily handle the rest. Smith looked like a difference maker in the eighth inning last season, albeit in minimal appearances. If he can build on his successful end to 2017, the Red Sox will have a great setup man.

And of course, Kimbrel will handle the ninth. One could argue that Kimbrel is the best closer in baseball. He certainly was last season, posting an absurd 126 strikeouts in 69 innings. He probably won’t be that good this year, but he’s still poised to be a top-five closer in baseball.

A Stronger Offense

Of course, the Sox had a great bullpen last year, but still weren’t always able to overcome sub par starts. This was mostly due an underwhelming offense. The Red Sox offense didn’t live up to its potential due to key injuries and underperformance by other players. Of course, David Ortiz‘ absence was a big part of last years limited offense.

Those problems should be a thing of the past. There’s no fully replacing David Ortiz, but the Red Sox have found their next big power bat in J.D. Martinez. That alone will give the Red Sox a better chance at coming from behind, but he won’t be the sole fix for the offense.

Hanley Ramirez battled through a shoulder injury all of 2017, and his health should be a huge boost for the roster. Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts should bounce back from down years, and Andrew Benintendi and Rafael Devers should only get better in their second years. This probably won’t be the best offense in the league like it was in 2016, but it could easily be a top five unit.

Not the End of the World

Obviously, it’s never ideal to lose two starting pitchers before Opening Day. However, the Red Sox have built a strong roster that’s capable of handling those types of losses. They don’t need the spot starter to be great, just serviceable.

It’s not crazy to think that the Sox could pull off a win in two or even all three of the spot starter’s appearances. In years past, that wouldn’t have been likely. This year, thanks to a great four-man rotation, a strong bullpen, and a talented lineup, it can certainly be done.

Cover image courtesy of Florida Today.