The Red Sox are facing a crucial challenge as they aim to solidify their starting rotation, with a particular focus on finding a reliable No. 2 starter. This task becomes even more critical given the unfortunate injury to Tanner Houck, who was initially chosen to fill that role but had to step back due to an 8.04 ERA in his first nine starts and a subsequent Tommy John surgery, keeping him out of action until 2027.
But here's where it gets interesting... The Sox have high hopes for 36-year-old right-hander Sonny Gray, acquired from the Cardinals on November 25th. With an impressive track record of 30 starts and 177 innings pitched on average over the last three seasons, boasting a 3.63 ERA, Gray is seen as a potential savior. Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow praised Gray's ability to excel in strikeout rates, walk rates, and keeping batters off the barrel, all crucial aspects of a successful starter.
However, Breslow refrained from officially declaring Gray as the No. 2 starter, acknowledging that he is the best candidate unless the team makes a move via trade or free agency.
Another contender is right-hander Brayan Bello, who signed a six-year, $55 million extension before the 2024 season. Bello has a 3.91 ERA in his career, but the Sox believe he can improve upon that.
The rotation picture beyond Bello is somewhat murky. The Sox have faith in the potential of 27-year-old right-hander Johan Oviedo, acquired from Pittsburg on December 4th. Oviedo has a 4.39 ERA in 67 career starts but showed promising signs with a livelier fastball after returning from Tommy John surgery last season.
And this is the part most people miss... The Sox have a deep pool of potential starters beyond their established names. Right-hander Kutter Crawford, who made 33 starts in 2024, is back from a knee injury and a mysterious wrist injury that required surgery. Left-hander Patrick Sandoval, who missed last season recovering from Tommy John surgery, also has a chance to compete for a spot.
Left-handers Connelly Early and Payton Tolle, who made their major league debuts last season, will also be in the mix during spring training. The Sox' improved pitcher development program has been a key factor in their success, and they expect to see more options emerge from the minors as the season progresses.
Prospects like left-hander Jake Bennett, who had a stellar 2.27 ERA in 19 games across three levels in the Nationals farm system, and left-hander Shane Drohan, who posted a 2.36 ERA in 11 starts for Triple-A Worcester last season, are among those to watch.
The Red Sox have a diverse group of starting pitchers, with a mix of experienced veterans and promising young arms. As they head into the 2026 season, the team's ability to develop and nurture talent will be crucial in determining their success.
