The Boston Red Sox face a pressing choice for their rotation.
Richard Fitts’ injury created another hole in the back end, leaving the team to sort out who takes the fifth spot as September approaches.
With Walker Buehler staying in the bullpen, the focus is now on Kyle Harrison and Payton Tolle, according to Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic.
Harrison has the advantage of experience. Already on the 40-man roster, the left-hander owns a 3.65 ERA in 11 Triple-A starts. He also carries big league time from his years with San Francisco prior to his trade to the Red Sox.
“He’s obviously pitched at the major league level and we can go pluck him whenever we need him and whenever we feel he’s ready,” Red Sox pitching coach Andrew Bailey said, as transcribed by McCaffrey. Harrison’s recent three-inning outing left him lined up for a potential weekend assignment.
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Tolle’s case is different. The 22-year-old prospect began the season in High A, raced through Double A, and now has three starts in Worcester under his belt. He has struck out 17 with just two walks in that span.
“Obviously, making the jump all the way to Triple A and still dominating hitters is really impressive,” said Bailey, as transcribed by McCaffrey. He added that pairing Tolle’s four-seamer with another consistent offering remains the developmental focus.
The Red Sox must decide whether Harrison’s experience or Tolle’s rapid rise best serves them down the stretch.
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It is a call that could sway Boston’s playoff push.