Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora recently provided updates on two key pitchers, Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello, both of whom are facing health challenges as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora recently provided updates on two of the team’s key pitchers, Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello, both of whom are dealing with injuries as the team heads into spring training and prepares for the 2025 season. Both pitchers have been integral to the team’s pitching staff in recent years, and their health is crucial for the Red Sox as they aim to improve upon their performance last season.
### Kutter Crawford’s Knee Injury
Kutter Crawford, a right-handed pitcher, has become a prominent member of the Red Sox rotation. He emerged as a reliable arm for the team last year, but he has been dealing with some physical challenges, particularly related to his knee. Crawford has been dealing with soreness in his right patellar tendon, which has plagued him for a while. This injury dates back to the previous season, and despite the discomfort, Crawford was able to make 33 starts in 2024, showing his resilience and determination. However, during the offseason, the issue flared up again, and Crawford began to experience more discomfort in his knee.
At the start of spring training, Crawford was one of the pitchers Red Sox fans had their eyes on as a key piece of the rotation. However, it quickly became apparent that he might not be as ready for the season as initially hoped. Speaking to reporters, Cora explained that Crawford had been struggling with his knee soreness and that it had affected his ability to get fully into his routine for the upcoming season.
While it was initially expected that Crawford would be ready to go for Opening Day, Cora acknowledged that the situation was far more uncertain than originally anticipated. “With Kutter, that’s the one it looks like is going to be long,” Cora said. “Opening Day, right now, is an ‘if.’ Let’s see what happens.” This statement reflected Cora’s cautious approach, underscoring the importance of allowing Crawford to fully heal before returning to the mound.
Cora also spoke to the potential impact of the injury on Crawford’s broader physical condition. “He’s just not feeling well,” Cora explained. “He’s behind and we’ve got to make sure the knee is good so the shoulder doesn’t suffer.” This comment indicates that the team is particularly concerned about the possibility of compensation injuries. If Crawford pushes through the knee issue and continues to pitch, there is a chance that his mechanics could change, which could lead to further injuries elsewhere, such as in his shoulder.
The Red Sox are going to take a cautious approach with Crawford, ensuring that he is fully recovered before throwing him back into the rotation. Cora made it clear that the team wants to avoid rushing him, especially given the long-term implications for his career. With Crawford being a young and promising pitcher, the last thing the Red Sox want is for his knee issue to become a recurring problem.
### Brayan Bello’s Shoulder Soreness
Brayan Bello, another young right-handed pitcher who has shown promise in his first few seasons with the Red Sox, is also dealing with an injury heading into 2025. Bello’s issue is not as long-standing as Crawford’s knee injury, but it is nonetheless concerning for both the pitcher and the team. Bello has reported shoulder soreness upon arriving at spring training. While imaging tests did not reveal anything particularly serious, Cora has made it clear that the team is taking a cautious approach with Bello’s recovery.
According to Cora, the team was optimistic that the issue would not be a long-term concern, but it was still something they were monitoring closely. “Bello has a strength test tomorrow to see where we’re at and make sure the plan fits what we need from him,” Cora said. This comment highlights the importance of evaluating the full extent of Bello’s condition before making any decisions about his readiness for the season. The strength test will help determine whether the soreness is part of a larger issue, and if it is, the team will adjust its plans accordingly.
One of the significant challenges with shoulder injuries is that they can be tricky to diagnose and treat. While imaging tests may not show major damage, the shoulder is a complex joint, and pitchers rely heavily on the mechanics of their shoulders to generate velocity and maintain control. If Bello’s shoulder soreness is the result of inflammation or muscle imbalance, it could take some time to resolve, and the team will need to proceed with caution to avoid causing further damage.
At the moment, Bello has not begun throwing bullpens, which is a key part of his preparation for the season. Cora noted that Bello would not start bullpen sessions until at least next week, depending on how his shoulder responds to treatment and the strength test. “He hasn’t started throwing bullpens yet,” Cora said. “Let’s see next week how it goes.” This timeline suggests that the Red Sox are taking a wait-and-see approach, giving Bello the necessary time to recover before pushing him too hard.
Given that the Red Sox have invested in Bello as one of their future stars, they are being cautious in their handling of his injury. There is a strong desire to avoid rushing him back into action if his shoulder is not fully healthy. The team knows how important it is for young pitchers like Bello to develop properly and stay healthy, as their long-term success is integral to the Red Sox’s rebuilding process.
### Rotation Plans and Impact
The injuries to both Crawford and Bello have raised questions about the Red Sox’s rotation plans for the 2025 season. As Cora noted, the team is closely monitoring the progress of both pitchers, and the uncertainty surrounding their availability for the start of the season could lead to some adjustments in the rotation.
Cora spoke about the possibility of using a six-man rotation, noting that it could be a useful tool depending on the health of Crawford, Bello, and the other pitchers on the roster. “We haven’t talked about a six-man [rotation],” Cora said. “You guys have talked about it. If we go that route, it’s for a reason. For right now, we’re taking the best five and using the bullpen the right way.” This statement suggests that while the team is not actively planning to use a six-man rotation, it is keeping that option open if the health of key pitchers like Crawford and Bello does not improve in time for Opening Day.
Cora also mentioned the importance of having a strong bullpen to support the rotation, especially if the team is forced to adjust its starting pitching plans. This would help the team mitigate the loss of any key arms while giving Crawford and Bello the necessary time to recover.
### Conclusion
As the Red Sox prepare for the 2025 season, the health of Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello will be critical in determining the team’s pitching rotation. Both pitchers have shown promise in their careers but are now facing challenges that could affect their availability for Opening Day. The Red Sox, led by manager Alex Cora, are being cautious with both pitchers, ensuring that they are fully healthy before being thrust into action. While the injuries are concerning, Cora’s emphasis on patience and long-term health should give fans hope that the team is prioritizing its players’ well-being over immediate results.
The Red Sox’s pitching staff will likely undergo some adjustments in the coming weeks based on the progress of Crawford and Bello. The team is prepared to make changes to its rotation plans if needed, whether that means using a six-man rotation or relying more heavily on the bullpen. Ultimately, the Red Sox are focused on ensuring that Crawford and Bello are in peak condition when they do take the mound, as they are vital to the team’s success in the years to come.
**Kutter Crawford’s Knee Injury**
Kutter Crawford, a right-handed pitcher, has been dealing with soreness in his right patellar tendon since early in the previous season. Despite this, he managed to make all 33 starts in 2024. However, the issue resurfaced during the offseason, and Crawford has been experiencing discomfort during spring training. Manager Alex Cora expressed concern about Crawford’s readiness for Opening Day, stating, “With Kutter, that’s the one it looks like is going to be long. Opening Day, right now, is an ‘if.’ Let’s see what happens.” Cora emphasized the importance of ensuring the knee is fully healed to prevent further complications, noting, “He’s just not feeling well. He’s behind and we’ve got to make sure the knee is good so the shoulder doesn’t suffer.” citeturn0search0
**Brayan Bello’s Shoulder Soreness**
Brayan Bello, another right-handed pitcher, reported shoulder soreness upon arriving at spring training. While imaging did not reveal any significant issues, Bello has been progressing slowly in his throwing program. Cora mentioned that Bello will undergo a strength test to assess his condition and determine the appropriate course of action. He stated, “Actually, Bello has a strength test tomorrow to see where we’re at and make sure the plan fits what we need from him.” Cora also noted that Bello has not yet started throwing bullpens, adding, “He hasn’t started throwing bullpens yet. Let’s see next week how it goes.” citeturn0search0
**Impact on the Red Sox Rotation**
The uncertainties surrounding Crawford and Bello’s health have raised questions about the Red Sox’s starting rotation for the upcoming season. Cora acknowledged the depth of the rotation but emphasized the need for caution with the injured pitchers. He stated, “We haven’t talked about a six-man [rotation]. You guys have talked about it. If we go that route, it’s for a reason. For right now, we’re taking the best five and using the bullpen the right way.” This suggests that the team is prepared to adjust its rotation plans based on the health of its pitchers. citeturn0search3
In summary, both Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello are dealing with injuries that may affect their availability for the start of the season. The Red Sox are closely monitoring their conditions and will make decisions based on their progress in the coming weeks.
