Advertisement

Garrett Richards is Excelling in the Boston Bullpen

Garrett Richards

While the Red Sox have struggled over the past month, Garrett Richards has been a bright spot. The veteran right-hander began the season in the rotation before being moved to the bullpen. In his new role, Richards has thrived. Although the 33-year-old has posted a 4.73 ERA this season, he has been lights-out as a reliever.

Since being moved to the bullpen, Richards allowed one earned run through 11.1 innings of work. In that span, he has given up seven hits while striking out 14 batters. Despite spending the majority of his career as a starter, Richards has made the transition appear seamless. Although his Red Sox career got off to a disappointing start, he is proving his value.

In August, the California native recorded a 3.26 ERA. It was the second month this season in which Richards had posted an ERA under 4.00 and the first time since May. Since taking on his new role, Richards has not allowed a home run. At the same time, he has consistently worked out of trouble. On Thursday night, he became the first Red Sox reliever with multiple three-inning saves since Alfredo Aceves in 2011. Heading into play on Sunday, Richards had only allowed one run over his last seven appearances.

Advertisement

With the playoffs quickly approaching, Richards has become an important relief arm. He has given Boston length out of the bullpen and filled a variety of roles. He has flashed his potential and looked more like the pitcher who posted an ERA under 4.00 from 2014 to 2018. After battling injuries the last few years, Richards has been at his best during a critical part of the season.

What to expect from Richards going forward

Following a scoreless effort on Sept. 2, the former 42nd overall pick has not allowed a run in three straight games. In that span, he has struck out six batters and allowed one hit. Richards also earned the praise of manager Alex Cora who told reporters on Tuesday, “It’s just a matter that we had other guys coming in, and he embraced the opportunity. He didn’t see it as a demotion, he wants to help us win, and he’s been outstanding.”

Advertisement

Over the next month, wins will be at a premium as the Red Sox look to secure a playoff spot. However, they are heating up at the perfect time as Boston has won four consecutive games after losing three straight to close out August. During that stretch, they have benefitted from clutch hitting and clutch performances from the bullpen. Richards has been key to the turnaround and will be relied on down the stretch.


Check us out on our socials:   
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk 
Instagram: @ptsportstalk

Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin17

Main Image Credit:

Advertisement

Embed from Getty Images

Advertisement

Check us out on our socials:   
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk 
Instagram: @primetimesportstalk

Advertisement

Share this:

MLB Awards - Braves SP Chris Sale
Latest News

Driscoll’s Picks for 2024 MLB Awards

With the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the World Series last week, it is officially the start of the MLB offseason. This is the time of year when everyone on social media argues about who should win each end-of-season award. Regardless of who wins these awards, there are a ton of people deserving in each category, but there can only be one winner for each.

Read More
2024 MLB Stars - All MLB Team - Royals Bobby Witt Jr.
Latest News

Driscoll’s Picks for 2024 All-MLB Teams

The MLB season ended a few weeks ago with the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the World Series. This has sparked a debate about the best players from the 2024 campaign. Even though playoff performance is not factored into these awards, it still leads to greater debates.

Read More
MLB baseball - Arizona Fall League
Latest News

Arizona Fall League to Get Underway

The Arizona Fall League is set to get underway on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Now entering its 32nd season, the league is a chance for top prospects to continue to hone and improve their skills. These prospects will get the opportunity to play with and against other rising stars from all over MiLB.

Read More

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Browse by Category:
Advertisement
Advertisement

Visit ChiefsBlitz.com for
hard-hitting KC Chiefs coverage.