The Boston Red Sox have finalized their starting rotation for the upcoming season, with Tanner Houck and Garrett Whitlock securing spots alongside Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, and Kutter Crawford. Meanwhile, Cooper Criswell, despite pitching well in spring training, has been optioned to Triple A Worcester to remain stretched out as a starter. Manager Alex Cora expressed confidence in the rotation and praised the adjustments made by Houck and Whitlock, emphasizing their roles as starters. Additionally, Josh Winckowski may also join Triple A as a reserve starter, as the team's starting pitching depth in the minors is limited.
Boston Red Sox's chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has identified Cooper Criswell as a potential rotation option following concerns about Lucas Giolito's injury. Criswell, who was signed to a one-year deal in December, has impressed with his elite strike-throwing ability and experience as a starter in Triple-A. Red Sox manager Alex Cora has challenged the pitchers to pitch deeper into games during spring training, and it's likely that Brayan Bello will be the Opening Day starter. The rest of the rotation remains uncertain, with potential spots open for Josh Winckowski, Tanner Houck, or Garrett Whitlock.
The Boston Red Sox have signed pitcher Cooper Criswell to a one-year deal. Criswell, known for his unconventional delivery and low velocity fastball, relies on an unusual release point to keep hitters off balance. He is a junior college product who impressed at Southern Union State Community College and later at North Carolina. This will be Criswell's first time playing in the northern region of the United States, as he has spent his entire amateur career in warm-weather climates.
