Boston Red Sox veteran relief pitcher Cooper Criswell hasn’t had the best start to the 2025 season. The right-handed pitcher made three appearances during the first two weeks of the season, but struggled to get guys out.
The 28-year-old reliever had a skyrocketing 10.38 ERA while allowing 10 hits, five earned runs (one home run), and a walk. The Red Sox did not envision Criswell getting hit hard early in the season, but it was a continuation from Spring Training (1-3, 4.66 ERA in five appearances).
That said, the Red Sox optioned Criswell to Triple-A Worcester earlier this month for Robert Stock. Despite his early-season struggles with the big league club, Criswell has improved in Triple-A.
In two Triple-A appearances (one start), the veteran pitcher already has a 1.50 ERA. Criswell also helped make history for the Worchester Red Sox, who had a combined seven-inning no-hitter earlier this past week against the Rochester Red Wings.
Isaiah Campbell, Mark Kolozsvary, Jacob Webb, and Cooper Criswell after today's 7-inning combined no-hitter! Only the 2nd in franchise history!
— Worcester Red Sox (@WooSox) April 17, 2025
Let's go fellas!!! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/GFEIjNA3Nk
The right-handed pitcher started the game for Worchester, tossing four shutout innings while only allowing two walks and striking out four hitters. After completing his four innings, Worcester turned the last three innings over to Isaiah Campbell and Jacob Webb.
A minor-league combined no-hitter won’t get a lot of attention. But for a guy like Criswell, who struggled in his last two starts with the big league club, it's a good start in the right direction for the veteran.
It’s unclear when Criswell will get called back up to the majors, but if he continues to pitch well in Triple-A, he’ll be the first option when they need someone for the pen.