Red Sox Retain Hurler To Bolster Much-Needed Bullpen Depth
The Boston Red Sox are in a precarious position with their pitching staff and could use all the help they can get. The next few series will define their season with the trade deadline approaching.
Boston recently was able to retain a right-handed hurler who was designated for assignment after struggling mightily against the Chicago Cubs over the weekend (five earned runs with four hits, four walks and three strikeouts in two innings).
Red Sox pitcher Jake Faria has cleared waivers and will be heading back to Triple-A Worcester according to the Major League Baseball transaction log.
The 29-year-old has struggled all year, posting a 6.47 ERA with a 46-to-35 strikeout-to-walk ratio and .258 batting average against in 55 2/3 innings for the WooSox.
It's clear that Faria will not be the answer for the Red Sox's pitching woes, particularly with Kyle Barraclough and Dinelson Lamet appearing to be much more promising arms this season. However, it doesn't hurt to have a guy like Faria who can be called up to eat innings when his fellow relievers are completely taxed from their two bullpen games a week.
If the Red Sox get back on track and put themselves in a position to buy at the deadline, we should not see Faria ever again. But, there's a chance we need him just to get through the season so it's not a complete loss having him back.
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