Kutter Crawford looking to build on 2023 success
During the 2023 campaign, Kutter Crawford was among the few bright spots for the Boston Red Sox. The 27-year-old split time between the bullpen and rotation and excelled regardless of the situation. Due to his success, expectations will be higher in 2024.
Last season, the former 16th-round pick appeared in 31 games and posted a career-low 4.04 ERA. He also frustrated hitters on a nightly basis and struck out a career-high 135 batters. As a result, Crawford became a more valuable part of the pitching staff.
Additionally, the Florida native was able to limit base runners. Opponents only hit .221 against Crawford, a significant drop from the previous year. During the 2022 campaign, opponents hit .269 against him. Crawford also showed improved control as his walk rate decreased with a higher workload.
His success did not go unnoticed, as he earned the praise of manager Alex Cora last September.
“I think a lot of people, including me, have been surprised at the fact that he’s been able to post this season, especially when he started as a reliever,” Red Sox manager Cora told the Boston Herald prior to Crawford’s last home start in September.
While the Red Sox’s pitching staff has undergone some changes, Crawford will still be an important piece. He showed last season that he is still improving and can be relied on. The only question that remains is if he will be used out of the bullpen or as a starter.
Regardless of what route the Red Sox take, Crawford will have to focus on his consistency. During the 2023 campaign, he struggled to pitch deep into games. If he can build on his success from last year, he could become an anchor in the rotation.
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