Garrett Crochet Returns to Boston Red Sox Roster for Yankees Clash

Crochet back in the mix

The Boston Red Sox have received a major boost ahead of their American League Wild Card series against the New York Yankees. Left handed pitcher Garrett Crochet has been added to the roster and will be available to pitch from the bullpen.

Crochet has been out of action since April because of shoulder inflammation. The best of three series starts on Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium, and having the left hander back gives the team another option.

Manager Chad Tracy discussed the pitcher's return. He said that Crochet has worked very hard to get everything back strong, but the team will still evaluate him daily to see where he is at.

Past success and current form

Before his injury, Crochet struggled slightly, posting a 3-3 record with a 6.30 ERA in six starts. However, he is a two time All Star who finished second in the American League Cy Young voting last season.

He showed signs of his old self last week during two live batting practice sessions in Fort Myers, Florida, where he threw in the mid 90s. The Red Sox will hope he can recreate his form from last season's Wild Card opener against the Yankees, when he allowed just one run and four hits while striking out 11 batters in 7 2/3 innings.

Roster changes

The Red Sox are carrying seven left handed pitchers on their roster for this series. However, they will have to play without setup man Tyron Guerrero. Guerrero has been on the injured list since September 1 with right shoulder inflammation.

To fill out the roster, Boston has also included utility players Nate Eaton and Andruw Monasterio.