Throughout Spring Training, the Boston Red Sox have encountered some unfortunate setbacks. Despite hopes for a strong response following a challenging 2023 season, marked by significant signings in free agency, the team’s only notable addition to the rotation has been Lucas Giolito. However, the Red Sox faced a setback when Giolito suffered an elbow injury, casting doubt on his availability for the entire 2024 season. Additionally, the team has grappled with several other injuries.
On a positive note, relief pitcher Chris Martin experienced a scare during a bullpen session on Saturday due to groin tightness. However, the team received encouraging news about his condition on Sunday, as reported by WEEI’s Rob Bradford.
“Just spoke with Chris Martin,” Bradford reported. “He’s walking fine and mentioned that cutting the bullpen session short yesterday due to tightness in his groin was purely precautionary. Currently, he’s playing catch.”
Martin played a crucial role as one of the Red Sox’s key relievers last season and is expected to maintain a significant presence on the team in 2024. With Martin and Kenley Jansen anchoring the bullpen, it has been considered one of the team’s strengths. However, if Martin were to suffer an injury, it could potentially alter this perception.
Despite the Red Sox’s strengths in certain areas, there is still room for improvement across the board, especially with Opening Day approaching. Securing additional starting pitchers remains a priority for the club, although continued injuries in other positions could further complicate matters.
