Alex Cora Reveals Good News Pertaining To Red Sox Rotation

BOSTON — The Red Sox are one step closer to a fully healthy rotation.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora confirmed Monday that right-hander Brayan Bello will make his first start of the season against the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday. Bello marks the first of two impending additions with Lucas Giolito, who made a fourth rehab start Sunday, not far away.

“It helps,” Cora said. “We’ve been two guys down, and the other guys have done a good job. But, obviously, he’s a big part of what we’re trying to accomplish.”

Bello dealt with right shoulder inflammation during spring training and the Red Sox opted to take it slow with the 25-year-old. Cora’s hope is Bello will throw five innings in his first start, though Boston won’t let him overdo anything in his first appearance.

“His velocity is up, which is very important for us. The action on his pitches is good. And we know what he can do,” Cora said. “I’m excited about him.”

Bello made 30 starts in 2024, throwing a career-high 162 1/3 innings. After serving as Boston’s starter on Opening Day, Bello bounced back after early struggles and performed his best during the second half of the season (3.66 ERA after July 1).

“I think he learned a lot throughout the season,” said Cora, noting Bello learned how to mix in a four-seamer. “He learned how to use it. Change speeds. Velocity was good. For him to go 30 starts, that was very important. Now he understands. Go out there and pitch.”

Cora confirmed left-hander Sean Newcomb will pitch Wednesday with Garrett Crochet set to start the finale Thursday. Bello’s return, and the impending return of Giolito, means the Red Sox aren’t far from a starting rotation of Crochet, Walker Buehler, Tanner Houck, Bello and Giolito.