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Garrett Crochet could be nearing a return to the Red Sox rotation after the hard-throwing left-hander reportedly progressed to a bullpen session Wednesday before Boston's game against the Phillies.

The Boston Red Sox received encouraging Garrett Crochet injury news Wednesday as the left-hander prepared for a key bullpen session before their game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

According to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe, Crochet confirmed that he was scheduled to throw a bullpen session Wednesday, marking his most intensive activity since being sidelined with left shoulder inflammation.

If Crochet responds well after Wednesday’s mound work, the Red Sox could soon begin mapping out a formal rehab assignment for one of baseball’s hardest-throwing left-handers.

A Major Milestone in Crochet’s Recovery

The update from Healey is further evidence that Crochet’s progression is moving in the right direction after a period of rest and treatment. Throwing off a mound represents a major step forward from flat-ground throwing programs. To take the step, the structural integrity of Crochet’s shoulder is likely holding up well under increased stress. For a pitcher who relies so heavily on high-velocity mechanics, clearing the bullpen hurdle is often a key precursor to a formal rehab assignment.

Crochet has been out of action since he was placed on the injured list April 29, after he felt discomfort in his throwing shoulder. The Red Sox medical staff opted for a conservative approach, placing him on the IL to avoid long-term damage to one of the most dominant left-handed arms in MLB. While the team has not yet provided a definitive timeline for his return to the active roster, Wednesday’s bullpen session suggests a return to the big-league mound could happen within the next few weeks, provided there is no post-session soreness.

The Impact of Crochet’s Absence

Standing 6-foot-6, Crochet became the instant ace of the Red Sox pitching staff after being acquired in a blockbuster offseason trade after the 2024 season. Beginning his career as a high-leverage reliever, Crochet transitioned seamlessly into a starting role until the shoulder injury cropped up. Crochet is known for a fastball that touches triple digits, complemented by a devastating slider that makes him particularly lethal.

Without Crochet, the Boston rotation and bullpen have had to navigate high-leverage innings with less margin for error. The Red Sox pitching staff has performed admirably in his absence, but the lack of a dominant left-handed power arm has been noticeable during divisional matchups against heavy-hitting lineups like the Yankees and Orioles.

What This Means for the Red Sox

The timing of Crochet’s return is crucial for interim manager Chad Tracy. As the Red Sox look to climb out of the AL East basement, having Crochet available again would provide a major boost.

Crochet’s return would help stabilize the workload for the rest of the staff. By reinserting an arm capable of generating high strikeout totals, the Red Sox can reduce the pressure on their middle-relief corps. If Wednesday’s bullpen session goes according to plan, the next step for Crochet will likely be a simulated game or a short stint with Triple-A Worcester to regain his “game feel” and command before returning to Fenway Park.

If Crochet avoids setbacks following Wednesday’s bullpen session, the Red Sox may soon have one of the American League’s most overpowering arms back as they try to remain in the AL East, or perhaps more likely, Wild Card race.