Clay Buchholz to Red Sox Bullpen
By Blake Yagman
On Friday, Boston Red Sox will likely decide to move pitcher Clay Buchholz from the starting rotation to the bullpen. To date, Buchholz has a 2-4 record through nine starts with a 5.92 ERA. After the game, Buchholz told reporters:
"“I’m basically the only one struggling.”"
Clay Buchholz’ start last night ultimately went unaddressed by Red Sox manager John Farrell after the game. However, the writing is on the wall. Last year’s team ace Eduardo Rodriguez is slotted to return to the rotation; Rodriguez figures to take the spot that will be vacated by Buchholz.
Buchholz’ relocation to the bullpen comes at the heels of a much improved starting rotation. Other than Rodriguez, the rotation has been boosted by the rebirth of Joe Kelly. Kelly’s power sinker lead to one of his best career outings earlier this week against Cleveland; he finished the game with 7 strikeouts after 6.2 scoreless innings. Red Sox general manager stated earlier this week that it would be “difficult to move Kelly to the bullpen” given his recent performances. Kelly has won 10 straight decisions at Fenway Park dating back to last season.
David Price is a new man after his delivery was adjusted by player/genius Dustin Pedroia. Price’s average fastball velocity has increased back up to 92.8 MPH (like previous seasons), and his statistics have mirrored the adjustments made in his approach. Price hosts a 7-1 record thus far in his tenure with the Red Sox.
The Red Sox two most consistent starters thus far have been Rick Porcello and Steven Wright. Porcello, a 27-year-old righty from New Jersey, has a 3.47 ERA and 7-2 record thus far in the 2016 campaign. The sinker-ball pitcher has used the Red Sox elite infield defense to his advantage this season, and his success shows as such.
Steven Wright entered this season as the Red Sox fifth starter and has the chance to pitch himself into the All-Star game. But we all knew that was going to happen, (W)right?
Wright, a 31-year-old knuckleball pitcher, has kept hitters and catchers off balance all season. His 2.52 ERA is one of the best amongst starters in the American League, and easily the best of any starting pitcher on the Red Sox roster.
Once the Red Sox make an announcement on who will be replaced for Rodriguez, analysis will be here on Chowder and Champions.