Rumor: Red Sox To Promote Starter To Pitch In Relief

The Boston Red Sox have an open spot on the active roster following the optioning of Isaiah Campbell to Triple-A Worcester.

A corresponding move isn’t official yet, but according to Sean McAdam, the Red Sox will be recalling starting pitcher Richard Fitts to pitch out of the bullpen.

Fitts has started 10 games for the Red Sox this year and posted a 4.83 ERA. He started the season strong, registering a 3.18 ERA over his first 17 innings. After that, a series of injuries derailed his season.

Fitts bounced between Boston and Triple-A Worcester, including rehabbing at the major league level during an injury crisis. He was optioned to Worcester on July 29 and has a 3.00 ERA over three starts since then.

Fitts hasn’t made any relief appearances since being traded to the Red Sox. It will be interesting to see how his stuff plays in shorter outings.

In his most recent stint in Worcester, Fitts’ fastball has averaged 95.4 mph. In a shorter outing, that number could increase significantly. The pitch returned solid swinging strike rates in the majors this season, but it has been hit hard when batters make contact.

Fitts’ major league strikeout rate is fairly low at 19.2%. He’s avoided walks against righties, but lefties have given him trouble. A bullpen role will allow Red Sox manager Alex Cora to pick advantageous spots for Fitts and avoid left-handed hitters. Long relief is also an option for Fitts, who’s stretched out as a starter.