It’s been a rough three days for the Boston Red Sox, who were just swept by the Houston Astros. Pitcher James Paxton, who started Sunday’s contest, lasted under an inning before leaving with an injury. Boston was crushed 10-2, first baseman Dominic Smith pitched for the third time this season, and a once consistent reliever struggled again. With the Red Sox dealing with multiple injuries and disappointments, manager Alex Cora hinted to the media that transactions were on the horizon.
Red Sox Slated For Busy Transaction Day On Monday
Brennan Bernardino Among Expected Red Sox Roster Moves
The moves begin with Brennan Bernardino, who has really struggled as of late. After having a 0.78 ERA at the end of May, the lefty has spiraled out of control. Bernardino has a lofty 10.97 ERA over his last 15 appearances and a 5.68 mark in his last 30. The issues began in July, when he allowed multiple runs on two separate occasions. Bernardino exited with a 11.12 ERA for the month in 5 ⅔ innings. Things haven’t gotten better in August, with Sunday’s eye sore the culprit. Bernardino gave up four runs, including two homers, in 1 ⅓ innings against Houston. In August, he has a 12.46 ERA in just over four innings of work. In the majors this season, he recorded a 3.83 ERA over 43 games.
Bernardino, who once was one of Boston’s best assets out of the bullpen, will now try to retool his game in Triple-A with the Worcester Red Sox. He’s thrown just 1 ⅔ innings at Worcester this season, allowing three runs and three hits. In 238 career minor league appearances, Bernardino has a 3.74 ERA and 1.35 WHIP. It’s currently unclear how Boston will approach replacing the 32-year-old. The Red Sox could opt to bring up a longer-inning option like Richard Fitts, who has had an up-and-down minor league season.
James Paxton Expected To Land On Injured List
Bernardino isn’t the only one who left Sunday’s matchup worse off. Paxton left the game with two outs in the first inning after attempting to go towards first base. He was diagnosed with a right calf strain and had to be helped off the field. Boston was forced into a bullpen game after using nine innings of relievers on Saturday. Despite no announcement, it’s expected that the 35-year-old will have to endure some time on the injured list. Paxton, during postgame comments, said that he is hopeful to return before the season ends. He’s set to receive imaging tomorrow to realize the full extent of his calf issue. Paxton was dealt to the Red Sox from the Los Angeles Dodgers in late July.
Brayan Bello Set To Return From Paternity List
Paxton’s departure will most certainly hurt, but starting pitcher Brayan Bello’s return will help take some weight off. The 25-year-old was placed on the paternity list on Friday. Bello is set to rejoin the organization on Monday. He’s mostly struggled this season, posting a 5.16 ERA in 21 starts. His last seven have been better, though, recording a 4.46 ERA and 45 strikeouts. Bello did not miss a start due to his absence. He is expected to take the mound during the Red Sox’s upcoming series with the Texas Rangers.
Where Boston’s Pitching Staff Currently Stands
The Red Sox have dealt with a multitude of pitching injuries this season. Paxton joins right-handers Cooper Criswell and Nick Pivetta as recent starters who are missing time. Criswell tested positive for COVID-19 and won’t be eligible to return until August 15. He was supposed to start Saturday’s game against the Astros. Pivetta skipped his most recent start with arm fatigue, but is expected to return this week.
With Criswell and Paxton out, here’s how Boston’s current rotation currently looks: Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, Bello, Pivetta, TBD. That open spot could go to a call-up or could result in another bullpen game. The Red Sox could also hope that Criswell only misses his minimum required. If that’s the case, he slots back into the starting group towards the end of the week.
