Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Whitlock took a positive step forward in his recovery from elbow surgery this week by playing catch for the first time since his procedure in May. Whitlock, who is solely focused on his health as he looks ahead to next season, expressed that his arm feels “fantastic” and anticipates being unrestricted once spring training begins in February.
Throughout his career, Whitlock has switched between starting and relieving roles, with the Red Sox envisioning him as a rotation force in the future. However, after being limited to just 168⅓ innings over the last three years due to various injuries, Whitlock now prioritizes staying healthy above all else.
The 28-year-old right-hander was a dominant reliever in his rookie season in 2021 but was slated to transition to a starting role in 2022 and beyond. However, injuries and surgeries have disrupted those plans, leading to uncertainty about his role heading into the 2025 season.
When asked about the upcoming season, Red Sox manager Alex Cora emphasized the depth of the pitching staff and the tough decisions that will need to be made regarding roles and roster spots. Whitlock, who feels like he has a “brand new arm” following his recent surgery, is hopeful to contribute and make an impact for the team next year.
As the Red Sox prepare for spring training, the competition for rotation spots will be fierce, with several pitchers vying for roles in the starting rotation. Whitlock’s progress and positive outlook on his recovery offer hope that he can stay healthy and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
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