After a lengthy rehab Red Sox prospect Austin Ehrlicher is 'ready to go' and looking forward to his pro debut
In the 18th round of the 2022 MLB Draft, the Red Sox selected a talented high school arm in Austin Ehrlicher. The California native had just finished an impressive Sophomore season for Santa JC Baseball. While the last year has been full of change, Ehrlicher decided to begin his pro career after a draft process he will never forget.
“The draft process was quick for me; it was kind of crazy,” said Ehrlicher in an exclusive interview with Beyond the Monster. “I came out in baseball halfway through the season because I was playing basketball, so I got a late start. One of the scouts was there for a catcher and I pitched a good game and that got the ball rolling.”
Ehrlicher put himself on the map with his performance on the mound. In his sophomore season, he posted a 3.95 ERA and struck out 65 batters in 12 starts. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to an elbow injury.
Following draft day, the talented 20-year-old had a difficult decision to make. His choices were between starting his pro career or going to Arizona State. While it took a year for Ehrlicher to join the organization, he saw going pro as the best option for his future.
“I was dealing with some injuries at the end of the year,” said Ehrlicher. “I thought being with the Red Sox would be the best option for me and my health, especially with all the trainers there. They’ve helped me along the way and I’ve come pretty far and feel ready to go.”
With the start of the 2024 campaign quickly approaching, the 2022 draftee will soon get a chance to show why the Red Sox targeted him. After a lengthy rehab, Ehrlicher is eager to get back on the mound.
“It’s been long; the first three months, I wasn’t really throwing, just doing rehab and strengthening” said Ehrlicher. “Some ups and downs here and there, but I feel really good right now and I’m ready to get back out on the mound in a couple of weeks.”
With Ehrlicher in the mix, the Red Sox have added a talented arm and a pitcher who is not afraid to attack hitters.
“I just attack and throw my best pitch every time,” said Ehrlicher. “There is nothing else you can do about it. Just try to execute and keep it simple, not try to think of too many things.”
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