The Boston Red Sox have struggled for years to find a reliable left-handed specialist for their bullpen, with little success.
Finding dependable bullpen pieces is always a gamble, and the Red Sox took a risk by signing veteran lefty Joely Rodríguez for the 2023 season. Unfortunately, after an inconsistent year and a half in Boston, Rodríguez is leaving the team.
Andrew Parker of Beyond the Monster reported this news via X.
Rodríguez’s time with the Red Sox did not pan out as hoped. Over 25 appearances with Boston, he recorded a 6.20 ERA and a 1.54 WHIP.
His stint with the Red Sox included a notable blown save in the season opener against the Seattle Mariners, which seemed to set the tone for his struggles.
In a parallel universe, Rodríguez might have stayed healthy in 2023 and become the lefty solution the Red Sox needed. Unfortunately, any potential revival of his career will now have to occur with a different team.
The Red Sox, who had recently been recovering from injuries, are facing new setbacks. As of Thursday, with the team just three games out of a playoff spot, they can’t afford to lose key players.
Hamilton, 26, had become a valuable asset with his speed and batting performance. In 98 games this season, he has been worth 2.7 wins above replacement, hitting .248 with eight home runs. His 33 steals rank fifth in Major League Baseball and second in the American League.
Hamilton expects to be out for four to six weeks, which could jeopardize his availability for the postseason if the Red Sox advance. Sogard will likely take over Hamilton’s role at second base against right-handed pitchers. He had a brief stint with the Red Sox in early August, posting a .227/.300/.250 slash line in 12 games.
It’s up to key players like Jarren Duran, Rafael Devers, and Triston Casas to carry the team forward.
