Red Sox Shift Garrett Crochet to 60-Day IL as Injury Setback Stalls Return

The Boston Red Sox continue to navigate a difficult 2026 campaign, and their latest roster move involving ace pitcher Garrett Crochet underscores the challenges facing the organization. Originally expected to miss only a short stretch after landing on the injured list in late April, Crochet’s recovery has now been significantly delayed.

The left-hander has been transferred to the 60-day injured list after experiencing a setback during a recent throwing session, where lat tightness reemerged. The development effectively resets his recovery timeline and extends his absence well beyond initial expectations.

Under the updated status, Crochet will not be eligible to return to the major league roster until at least June 25, leaving Boston without one of its top arms for a critical portion of the season. The move reflects growing caution around his rehabilitation after early optimism about a quicker return.

As the Red Sox manage his absence, they are also making parallel roster changes aimed at stabilizing a pitching staff that has struggled with consistency and performance throughout the year.

1. Setback Resets Crochet’s Recovery Timeline

Garrett Crochet’s injury timeline shifted after what was initially believed to be a relatively short-term absence. When he first went on the injured list in late April, the expectation was that he would miss only a brief period before rejoining the rotation. However, a setback during a throwing session last week changed that outlook. The recurrence of lat tightness raised concerns about rushing his return, prompting the organization to extend his recovery window. By placing him on the 60-day injured list, the Red Sox effectively acknowledge that his rehabilitation requires a more cautious approach. The decision prioritizes long-term health over short-term rotation needs. This adjustment not only delays his return but also signals uncertainty about when he will be able to regain full strength and durability.

2. Rotation Moves Reflect Broader Struggles

Alongside Crochet’s status change, Boston made additional pitching roster decisions aimed at reshuffling a struggling staff. One of the most notable moves involved optioning right-hander Brayan Bello to Triple-A Worcester. Bello, once considered a stable rotation piece, has endured a difficult season marked by inconsistency and early-game struggles. His recent outing against the Baltimore Orioles highlighted those issues, as he allowed six earned runs in a home loss. The demotion reflects the organization’s attempt to reset a pitcher who has not found rhythm, particularly in the opening innings of his starts. Boston is hoping that a lower-pressure environment can help him regain command and confidence. To fill the roster spot, the Red Sox promoted left-hander Joe La Sorsa, a recent acquisition from the Pittsburgh Pirates. His arrival provides the team with additional bullpen depth as they prepare for a demanding stretch of games.

3. Red Sox Searching For Stability Amid Standings Slide

The roster moves come as Boston continues to struggle in the standings, sitting at the bottom of the American League East with a 26-35 record. The team has been unable to establish consistency over the course of the season. While their road performance has been relatively competitive at 16-14, their struggles at Fenway Park have significantly weighed down their overall record. A 10-21 mark at home has contributed heavily to their last-place position. Pitching inconsistency has been a central issue, with injuries and underperformance limiting the effectiveness of the rotation. The absence of Crochet only adds to the challenge of stabilizing a staff that has yet to find rhythm. As the season progresses, Boston’s focus now shifts toward managing health, evaluating internal options, and attempting to remain competitive while key contributors work their way back from injury.