Red Sox Positional Preview: A Revamped Starting Rotation Led by Garrett Crochet
The Boston Red Sox’s 2024 season was a mixed bag, but their starting pitching staff emerged as a surprising bright spot. The team’s starters ranked seventh in MLB in ERA (3.81), second in WHIP (1.19), and fourth in batting average against (.236). While they were 16th in strikeouts (771), the Red Sox have bolstered their rotation over the offseason, potentially transforming it into one of the best in baseball for the 2025 season.
A New Ace in Town: Garrett Crochet
The Red Sox made a significant move by acquiring Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox in a blockbuster deal. Crochet, a left-handed pitcher, had a standout 2024 season, finishing with a 3.58 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and an impressive 209 strikeouts over 146 innings. His elite strikeout stuff and ability to limit walks have drawn comparisons to former Red Sox ace Chris Sale. Despite an innings limit in the second half due to his injury history, Crochet is expected to be unleashed in 2025. With his Cy Young-caliber performance, he is a strong contender for the American League Cy Young Award, currently holding the second-best odds behind Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers.
The Breakout Star: Tanner Houck
Tanner Houck, a right-handed pitcher, had a breakout 2024 season, earning his first All-Star nod. Initially expected to pitch out of the bullpen, Houck took over the rotation when Lucas Giolito went down with an elbow injury. He finished the season with a 3.12 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 154 strikeouts in 178.2 innings. Houck’s ability to pitch deep into games and his shutout performance against the Cleveland Guardians in April solidified his status as Boston’s de facto ace. With a stronger supporting cast in 2025, Houck is poised to build on his success and provide a formidable 1-2 punch with Crochet at the top of the rotation.
A Proven Veteran on the Rebound: Walker Buehler
Walker Buehler, another right-handed addition, is looking to bounce back after a challenging 2024 season. Despite a 5.38 ERA and 1.55 WHIP, Buehler’s strong postseason performance with the Los Angeles Dodgers, culminating in a World Series title, offers a glimmer of hope. A two-time All-Star, Buehler last showcased his ace potential in 2021, posting a 2.47 ERA with 212 strikeouts in 207.2 innings. With his experience and talented arm, Buehler is a strong candidate for the "Comeback Player of the Year" award. His presence in the rotation will be crucial if the Red Sox aim to clinch a playoff berth.
A Bright Future: Brayan Bello
Brayan Bello, a right-handed pitcher, has shown flashes of brilliance since his arrival in the majors, but he has yet to fully live up to his potential. The 25-year-old had a solid 2024 season, posting a 4.49 ERA and 1.36 WHIP in 162.1 innings. Bello’s availability and durability are significant assets, as he was one of three Red Sox starters to make 30 starts. As the Red Sox begin the 2025 season, there is a sense of optimism that Year 4 will be Bello’s breakout year. His improved performance in the second half of 2024, with a 3.00 ERA in August and a 3.55 ERA in September, suggests he is ready to take the next step.
The Veteran Returnee: Lucas Giolito
Lucas Giolito, a right-handed pitcher, is set to return to the Red Sox rotation after missing the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery. Giolito’s 2019 All-Star campaign and subsequent Cy Young votes highlight his potential. However, he will need to address his tendency to allow home runs, having given up 41 in his 2023 season. If Giolito can find his pre-injury form, he will provide a significant boost to Boston’s pitching depth. His experience and talent make him a valuable addition to the rotation, along with Crochet and Buehler.
A Depth-Filled Rotation: Kutter Crawford
Kutter Crawford, a right-handed pitcher, was the Red Sox’s best starter for the first couple of months in 2024, but he regressed as the season progressed, finishing with a 4.36 ERA and 4.65 FIP. Crawford allowed an MLB-leading 34 home runs, a trend that must be addressed in 2025. With the additions of Crochet, Buehler, and Giolito, Crawford may find himself as a fringe starter. However, the Red Sox may opt for a six-man rotation early in the season to manage their grueling schedule. Regardless, Crawford’s recent knee soreness will need to be monitored to ensure he remains a viable option.
Conclusion
The Boston Red Sox’s starting rotation has undergone a significant transformation over the offseason, with the additions of Garrett Crochet, Walker Buehler, and Lucas Giolito. If these new faces can stay healthy and perform to their potential, the Red Sox will boast one of the best rotations in baseball in 2025. The return of Tanner Houck and the continued development of Brayan Bello, along with the depth provided by Kutter Crawford, position the Red Sox well for a strong season. With a blend of elite talent and promising prospects, the Red Sox are poised to contend for a playoff berth and potentially go deep into the postseason.
