The Boston Red Sox have faced a tumultuous 2025 season, following ambitious offseason moves that included acquiring ace Garrett Crochet and third baseman Alex Bregman. These decisions sparked discontent among players, particularly Rafael Devers, who reluctantly transitioned to designated hitter. Injuries have plagued the team, sidelining key players like Kutter Crawford and Triston Casas, the latter suffering a season-ending knee injury. The Red Sox's pitching has been subpar, with their rotation ranking 22nd in ERA. The bullpen has also struggled, leading the league with 14 blown saves. Despite these issues, the Red Sox still have a chance at playoff contention but must turn things around quickly to avoid being labeled one of the league's biggest disappointments.

Injuries have significantly impacted the Boston Red Sox's performance this season, particularly on the pitching front. Kutter Crawford, who was a key contributor last year, is recovering from a knee injury, which has kept him sidelined. He led the American League in innings pitched in 2023 with 183.2 innings, albeit with a 4.36 ERA. His ability to eat innings has been crucial for the Red Sox, and recent reports indicate he is nearing a return. Meanwhile, Tanner Houck is also expected to return from injury, adding depth to a depleted rotation.

Both Crawford and Houck's returns could provide the Red Sox with much-needed boosts. While Crawford's statistical performance might not project to drastically change the season outcome, his experience and capacity to pitch deep into games could stabilize a struggling rotation. Returning to a 4.04 ERA could still offer value for Crawford and the Red Sox as they navigate the rest of the season.

Boston Red Sox fans can breathe a sigh of relief as starting pitcher Walker Buehler is set to return, bolstering a rotation that has faced numerous injuries this season. Despite a shaky start with a 4.28 ERA, his potential remains high, thanks to a strong previous track record with the Los Angeles Dodgers, including two All-Star selections and impressive Cy Young finishes. The Red Sox, currently hovering at .500, desperately need Buehler’s talent as they aim for a postseason push.

With Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, and Richard Fitts sidelined, Buehler's health becomes crucial. The team has shown resilience with efforts from Sean Newcomb and Hunter Dobbins, but Buehler’s return could significantly enhance their chances. Despite previous shoulder issues and missing all of 2023 due to Tommy John surgery, his presence on the mound could be a game changer as the season progresses.

Brayan Bello is expected to return from the injured list to start Tuesday's game against the Seattle Mariners after a successful bullpen session. The young pitcher has been on the mend due to a right shoulder strain, which hindered his preseason preparation. Despite allowing 11 earned runs in 14 innings over rehab starts, the Red Sox are ready to reintegrate him into the rotation.

In related news, catcher Connor Wong is showing improvement in his recovery from a pinky fracture, while starter Richard Fitts is also progressing with his shoulder strain. Kutter Crawford will head to Fort Myers for further rehabilitation, signifying that the Red Sox are taking a cautious approach with their injured players. Meanwhile, Lucas Giolito is set to make another rehab start, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring of pitching performances during recovery.

The Boston Red Sox are facing a challenging start to their season, with three of their starting pitchers placed on the injured list. Lucas Giolito, who recently suffered a low-grade left hamstring strain during spring training, joins Brayan Bello (shoulder) and Kutter Crawford (knee) as they prepare for the season opener on March 27 against Texas.

Giolito, who signed a significant two-year, $38.5 million contract with the Red Sox prior to last season, missed all of 2023 due to a partial tear in his right ulnar collateral ligament. His previous season stats were less than impressive, with an 8-15 record and a 4.88 ERA across stints with the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and Cleveland Guardians. With these injuries, the Red Sox will need to strategize effectively as they look to navigate the early part of the season without their key pitching assets.