Red Sox option struggling southpaw following series loss versus Astros
The Red Sox are optioning struggling left-handed reliever Brennan Bernardino to Triple-A Worcester, according to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo.
The southpaw allowed four runs across 1 1/3 innings during the Red Sox’ 10-2 loss to the Astros at Fenway Park. Bernardino owns a 3.83 ERA with a 1.43 WHIP, along with 40 strikeouts over 40 frames in 43 games this season.
Boston is hoping to add a fresh arm ahead of the series opener with the Rangers on Monday night. Meanwhile, Bernardino will work on getting back on track and looking more like he did at the start of the year. The lefty posted a 0.93 ERA through his first 27 outings, starting the season with Triple-A Worcester.
With Bernardino heading back to Polar Park, the Red Sox are back to one lefty in the bullpen. Last week, Boston recalled Cam Booser and is currently Red Sox skipper' Alex Cora's lone option in the bullpen, unless the club adds Bailey Horn or even Joely Rodriguez from Triple-A Worcester.
Rodriguez has pitched well over 11 outings, posting a 2.25 ERA with 12 strikeouts over 12 innings. There is some risk with Rodriguez; he has dealt with various injuries the last few seasons, including this year, where he saw time on the injured list from May until late June.
Another internal option for the Red Sox is Zach Penrod, who recently came off the IL after missing time with a shin injury. Penrod has primarily been used as a starter but was utilized out of the WooSox bullpen in his last outing. The left-handed hurler pitched one inning on Aug. 10 against the Syracuse Mets. He gave up one earned run off one hit while allowing a walk in the outing. Penrod’s ability to pitch multiple innings could allow the Red Sox to use him in a bulk-inning role.
