The Boston Red Sox have been having issues with their bullpen as of late. All the injuries and the promotions/demotions from within have not been effective. They could (and should) go to the waiver wire and try to acquire Alexis Diaz, then work with him, but since that's only a proposition and not reality, it's time to consider pieces from within that can get an opportunity.
Connelly Early was just scratched from his start in the second game of Worcester's doubleheader on Sunday, not because he was sick or injured, but because the Red Sox ordered Chad Tracy to rest him. It's a wise choice, as the Red Sox's #6 prospect has been performing so well in AAA since his promotion, and why not bring such momentum up to the majors?
Connelly Early Will Get His Red Sox Chance Soon
It's not only about his arm, but also about the kid's hopes for a future promotion. In his only six games, he's already posted a 2.83 ERA with 36 strikeouts and only two home runs given up in 28.2 innings of work.
The former fifth-round pick in the 2023 MLB Draft has four pitches in his arsenal. Let's start with his fastball. It started at a low 90s velocity-wise, but he improved it drastically, topping 96 mph. Since that increase, he's been missing players' bats more. He also has a sweeper, a changeup, and a slider that all work in the 80s. All of which work well with his delivery.
His mechanics are from a low three-quarters arm slot, and the deal is, he's not doing anything special. He's got a fast windup, puts his arm all the way back, but brings it up quickly when he throws. In a way, there's a chance that he'd need them tweaked a bit in case they want to improve his velocity and his stamina for the majors, but that would come with time.
They need to give Early a chance, and it'll also prove what he can do for October (unless they lose almost every single game remaining). The rookies have been taking this team to new heights, heights that the SoxNation hasn't seen since 2021, or even back in 2018, if those scars are still too fresh. It's time for Craig Breslow to strike and give these kids a chance.