The Boston Red Sox have made some key roster adjustments, moving players to the injured list while offering tentative timelines for their return. Notably, Kutter Crawford has been placed on the 15-day injured list, effective retroactively from March 22.
Although Crawford participated in spring training, he didn't pitch in any Grapefruit League games. Instead, he focused on minor league matchups and live batting practice sessions.
His progress was briefly stalled by a bout with the flu in February, which already had him slated to start the season on the injured list.
Crawford's journey back from last season's knee and wrist injuries, including wrist surgery, has been a careful one. The decision to place him on the 15-day list suggests he's nearing readiness for an extended rehab assignment, but his return to the active roster isn't anticipated until late April or early May.
Crawford, who made 33 starts for Boston in 2024, faces a different landscape upon his return. The Red Sox's rotation has been bolstered by the additions of Sonny Gray and Ranger Suarez, with Connelly Early also starting the season in the rotation. Joining them are Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello, rounding out a competitive starting lineup.
In terms of pitching depth, Patrick Sandoval, Johan Oviedo, and Payton Tolle are currently ahead of Crawford. Despite this, Crawford could still be a valuable bullpen asset if the Red Sox decide to bring him back to the majors. The fact that he's on the 15-day injured list, rather than the 60-day, is an encouraging sign for his potential return.