Nick Pivetta proving to be a weapon out of the bullpen

Photo Courtesy: Michael Dwyer

Entering the 2023 campaign, Nick Pivetta had pitched exclusively as a starter since joining the Red Sox three years ago. That changed in mid-May after the former fourth-round pick posted a 6.30 ERA in his first eight starts. Now over a month into his new role, Pivetta has put a rough start behind him and become a weapon for the Red Sox as a reliever.

In his last 10 relief appearances, the Texas native has posted a 1.84 ERA and allowed three earned runs. Opponents are hitting under .200 against him during that stretch. Due to his recent play, Pivetta’s ERA has dropped by nearly two runs. He has been a different pitcher every time he takes the mound.

When Pivetta lost his spot in the rotation, his focus was on getting better and giving the Red Sox a chance to win.

“I’ve got to pitch better, and I’ve got to go and start and do that right there,” Pivetta told the media in May. “The better I do out of the bullpen, the more I help the team win and move us towards our overall goal of winning the World Series. I think that’s most important.”

He backed that statement up with a dominant June. In 10.2 innings of work, the 30-year-old only allowed two hits and added 15 strikeouts to his resume. While Pivetta did walk nine batters during that span, he limited the damage when opponents reached base. That was not the case earlier in the season.

Although the veteran righthander didn’t get off to an ideal start, he is showing that he can still be a valuable piece. That has been important, with injuries piling up for the Red Sox in the bullpen and rotation.

As the trade deadline approaches, Pivetta is a possible trade chip depending on where the Red Sox are in the standings. The 2023 season has been a rollercoaster ride, but Boston is only five games out of a playoff spot. If the deficit increases, Pivetta could be an interesting piece for a team needing a veteran arm.

Regardless of what the future holds, Pivetta’s focus will remain the same. Giving the Red Sox a chance to win every time Alex Cora calls his name.

Follow Jamie on Twitter @JamieGatlin17

For additional Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots, MLB and NFL content follow Beyond the Monster on Twitter @BeyondtheMnstr.

Join our new Facebook group for all of our latest content, click the link here.