BALTIMORE — Garrett Crochet is making strides in his recovery as he aims to salvage his 2026 season with the Boston Red Sox. On Friday, September 4, Crochet threw 16 pitches off the mound during his first bullpen session in nearly three months, marking a significant step in his rehabilitation process.
The 27-year-old left-hander, who was the runner-up for the 2025 AL Cy Young Award, has been sidelined since April 25 due to shoulder soreness. In that game against the Baltimore Orioles, Crochet delivered an impressive performance, throwing six scoreless innings. However, his season took a downturn shortly after, as he was unable to continue pitching due to the injury. His initial return attempt in May was cut short, necessitating further rest.
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy remains cautiously optimistic about Crochet's potential return, despite the limited time left in the regular season, which has only three weeks remaining. Tracy acknowledged that while the window for Crochet to contribute this season is narrowing, he is not entirely ruling out the possibility.
"The fact he got on the mound today and threw is a really good sign," Tracy commented at Camden Yards. He emphasized the importance of how Crochet feels following the bullpen session, noting that any lingering effects from the injury could impact his progress. "But I think the fact that, with all the work he put in, the fact he got off the mound and threw a bullpen today is a really good sign. The goal is to get him, by the end of the season, out there, if he can."
As of Friday, the Red Sox were in a strong position, holding a 5 1/2-game lead for the second wild card spot in the American League. This advantageous standing could extend Crochet's opportunity to return, even if it is in a limited role as a short reliever during the postseason.
In addition to Crochet's progress, Tracy provided updates on other pitchers recovering from injuries. Tanner Houck, who is expected to return as a reliever, successfully completed a simulated game and is scheduled for a rehab outing at Class-AA Portland on Tuesday. Houck has been working his way back from Tommy John surgery performed in 2025. Johan Oviedo, who has been out since April due to a flexor tendon strain, is also nearing the start of a rehab assignment.
With the possibility of reinforcements on the horizon, the Red Sox are hopeful that these returning players can provide much-needed support as they head into the final stretch of the season. Tracy remarked, "As you get beat up and you need help, having guys of that caliber of big league talent, if you can get them there, it would be important down the stretch."
In the 2026 season, Crochet has posted a 3-3 record with a 6.30 ERA over six starts. He began the season struggling but showed signs of improvement before his shoulder issue sidelined him. Last year, he led the league with 255 strikeouts in 205 1/3 innings pitched, finishing with a stellar 2.59 ERA, which underscores his potential impact on the mound if he can return to form.
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