Garrett Crochet nears Red Sox return ahead of playoffs

Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet has taken a significant step toward returning to Major League Baseball after facing a live hitter for the first time since April 25. During a recent session at Fenway Park, the left-handed pitcher threw 16 pitches to Ceddanne Rafaela and reportedly reached speeds of 96 mph.

Crochet has been sidelined for nearly five months due to left shoulder inflammation. While he is unlikely to rejoin the starting rotation for the upcoming postseason, his recovery offers the Red Sox a potential high-leverage option for the bullpen. Crochet expressed confidence in his progress, stating, “I felt good out there. Felt like I was able to ramp up intensity to a place that I haven’t gone yet.”

The timing of his potential return is critical as the Red Sox prepare for a likely postseason matchup against the New York Yankees. The team is currently working to secure a postseason seed while monitoring how Crochet responds to increased intensity on the mound.