Chris Murphy inching closer to returning to the Red Sox bullpen
Due to a heavy workload, the Red Sox bullpen has been tested so far this season, but help could be on the way. Reliever Chris Murphy, who underwent Tommy John surgery last April, is nearing his return. The California native started his rehab assignment at the end of May and has impressed so far.
Murphy has not allowed an earned run in four outings while striking out seven batters. In 4.1 innings, the 27-year-old has only surrendered two hits and walked two batters. Although it is a small sample size, Murphy’s performance is encouraging after being out of baseball for more than a year.
At the moment, Murphy is on the 60-day IL. If everything goes as planned, his return is expected to come following the All-Star break. After a rookie season in which there were some positive signs, he is eager to return to the majors and help the Red Sox win.
During his rookie season, Murphy posted a 4.91 ERA in 20 games. In 47.2 innings pitched, he allowed 26 earned runs and walked 17 batters. While he struggled at times, he was dominant in his first 28.1 innings. Murphy allowed five earned runs in that span. In his final outings, Murphy had his worst stretch in the majors, allowing 17 runs in 14.1 innings.
The last time Murphy was healthy, he was an arm that could go multiple innings. So far, 14 of his 20 major league outings have been at least two innings or more. That versatility will be important down the stretch and help give others the chance to rest.
While the Red Sox will ease Murphy back into the mix once he is off the IL, having him as an option will be good. He was ranked as one of the organization's top 30 prospects before making his MLB debut. The Red Sox hope he can rediscover that form and become a trusted option for Alex Cora.
Thanks for the update that offers no helpful information. He's still out for 8 more weeks. By that time, the season will be a total loss.