The Boston Red Sox are actively seeking a starting pitcher as the MLB trade deadline approaches, especially in light of injuries to key players such as Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, and Hunter Dobbins. While Garrett Crochet has performed admirably, the overall rotation has struggled with inconsistency. Reports indicate that the team is inquiring about José Soriano, a promising 26-year-old pitcher from the Los Angeles Angels. Soriano has a 3.90 ERA in 20 starts this season, showcasing potential but also inconsistency, which raises concerns.

Although Soriano is not as renowned as other targets like Joe Ryan or Sandy Alcantara, his potential makes him an intriguing option. With three years of arbitration eligibility remaining, he could provide long-term value. However, his recent performance has been mixed, with a 4.67 ERA since June 4, highlighting the risk involved for Boston. The Red Sox hope to capitalize on Soriano's upside as they prepare for the stretch run.

The Boston Red Sox have surged back into playoff contention with a remarkable 10-game winning streak, bringing their record to 53-45. This impressive turnaround has placed them well within striking distance of a postseason berth as they head into the second half of the season. The team is in need of reinforcements, particularly in the starting rotation, following injuries to key pitchers like Hunter Dobbins and Tanner Houck. Speculation is rife around potential trade targets, with Arizona Diamondbacks' Merrill Kelly emerging as a prime candidate. At 37, Kelly is a pending free agent, presenting both an opportunity and a risk as the Red Sox weigh their future against current needs.

Kelly boasts an 8-5 record this season, with a 3.34 ERA and 113 strikeouts across 116 innings, making him a significant upgrade over the struggling Walker Buehler. While the Red Sox are proving to be a competitive team, the decision to pursue Kelly, along with potential prospects like Connelly Early and Payton Toll, could define their immediate future.

The Boston Red Sox are set to ramp up their pitching roster with Tanner Houck and Hunter Dobbins both beginning injury rehab assignments this weekend with the Portland Sea Dogs. Houck, who has been sidelined since mid-May due to a right flexor strain, is expected to make his return on Friday, following three previous rehab outings where he accumulated five strikeouts over 6.1 innings. He had a notable run with the Sea Dogs in 2019, posting an 8-6 record. Meanwhile, Dobbins, recovering from a right elbow strain since late June, will pitch in Saturday's game. His current season stats include a 4-1 record and a 4.10 ERA with 43 strikeouts in 59.1 innings with Boston. Both pitchers will be key in bolstering the Red Sox's rotation as they look to push for a playoff spot.

Boston Red Sox pitcher Kutter Crawford is set for wrist surgery following an off-field accident that jeopardizes his season. Manager Alex Cora confirmed the injury, emphasizing it was not the result of reckless behavior. Crawford, who led the AL in starts last season, was already recovering from a knee injury. The Red Sox are facing further challenges with injuries to starters Tanner Houck and Hunter Dobbins, compounding their pitching woes.

With a record of 40-41 and amidst a four-game losing streak, the Red Sox's starting rotation is now critically thin, leaving them vulnerable in a competitive AL East. Boston recently traded slugger Rafael Devers, adding to the team's struggles. The loss of Crawford is expected to be a significant setback as they navigate the rest of the season.

Worcester's Polar Park witnessed an exceptional pitching duel between Boston Red Sox's Tanner Houck and future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer, who was on a rehab assignment with the Toronto Blue Jays. As both pitchers aimed to return to the majors, Houck struggled, giving up one earned run in just one inning, while Scherzer showcased his prowess, striking out eight in 4.1 innings. The matchup drew comparisons to legendary encounters from the past, igniting excitement among fans.

In this intriguing minor league affair, Houck, recovering from injury, expressed optimism about his performance, while Scherzer's successful outing further solidified his status as one of baseball's elite. The event served as a reminder of the rich history of baseball in Worcester, leaving fans with lasting memories of witnessing such notable talents on the mound.