From Mlb · · 1m 40s
Crochet throws 96 mph, eyes playoff return
Red Sox lefty Garrett Crochet threw live batting practice for the first time in four months, hitting 96 mph as he races to get healthy before the postseason.
In brief
Red Sox lefty Garrett Crochet threw live batting practice for the first time in four months, hitting 96 mph as he races to get healthy before the postseason. Crochet is progressing toward a potential playoff role, but the Red Sox will decide this weekend whether he's ready to pitch in games or just serve as a roster…
Crochet throws live for first time
The Red Sox lefty threw 16 pitches to teammate Ceddanne Rafaela on Tuesday, his first live batting practice in nearly four months since shoulder inflammation sidelined him in late April.
Fastball velocity climbing
Crochet reached 96 miles per hour with his fastball and said he felt good ramping up intensity to levels he hadn't hit yet during his recovery.
“I would say the way that live just went, that I could go get outs.”
Manager sees sharp progress
Manager Chad Tracy watched from behind home plate and noted the velocity and spin rates looked sharp, signaling good progress toward playoff readiness.
“The velocity's climbing. The spins looked sharp.”
Wild Card Series one week away
The Red Sox play Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series in one week, likely at Yankee Stadium, giving Crochet a tight window to prove he's ready.
Decision comes this weekend
Crochet will throw again this weekend, either in another live session or in a regular season game. The Red Sox front office will then decide if he's ready for the postseason roster.
Cautious approach possible
One option is keeping Crochet off the Wild Card roster and saving him for the Division Series if the Red Sox advance, prioritizing his long-term health over immediate need.
The essence
Crochet is progressing toward a potential playoff role, but the Red Sox will decide this weekend whether he's ready to pitch in games or just serve as a roster option.
