Boston Red Sox Keep Garrett Whitlock

Red Sox Keep Garrett Whitlock

The Boston Red Sox have taken action to keep pitcher Garrett Whitlock with the team. On Sunday night, the club officially exercised their 8.25 million dollar option for the 2027 season.

This move prevents the veteran pitcher from hitting the market as a free agent. The club had a clear decision to make, as declining the 2027 option would have forced them to pay Whitlock a 1 million dollar buyout fee instead.

Strong Performances On The Pitch

The 30 year old right hander earned this extension after delivering strong performances on the mound last season. Whitlock finished the campaign with a 7-2 record and recorded a career best 1.72 ERA.

He was a key figure out of the bullpen, making 54 relief appearances for Boston. During those games, he managed four saves and delivered 59 strikeouts across 52 1/3 innings pitched.

Dealing With Injury Setbacks

His solid season came despite spending two separate periods on the sidelines due to injury problems.

His first setback happened during the middle of the season. He did not pitch for the Red Sox between May 24 and June 9 because of left knee inflammation.

Later in the year, he suffered another delay. He was out of action between Aug. 9 and Aug. 29 while recovering from right elbow inflammation.

Breakdown Of The Long Term Contract

Whitlock first agreed to his current contract back in April 2022. That agreement was a four year contract valued at 18.75 million dollars, which came with two club options attached.

The first option for 8.25 million dollars in 2027 has now been picked up by Boston.

Looking further ahead, the Red Sox also hold a club option for the 2028 season. That future option is set at 10.5 million dollars, with a buyout cost of 500,000 dollars if Boston chooses not to activate it.