Red Sox pitching prospect returns from the injured list and hits 99 mph during start for the Greenville Drive
Red Sox pitching prospect David Sandlin was activated off the injured list on Saturday after missing time with right forearm tightness. The news of Sandlin being initially activated was first reported by Chris Hatfield of SoxProspects.com.
Sandlin started for the Greenville Drive on Saturday night; making his first start since May 4, when he tossed five innings, giving up an earned run off two hits while recording seven strikeouts.
The right-handed hurler went 1 2/3 innings, giving up two runs off three hits, including a home run, and striking out two while allowing no walks. Sandlin threw 35 pitches, with 23 of them for strikes.
Sandlin hit 99 mph with his fastball while mixing in some devastating off-speed pitches, according to the team broadcast. He was relieved by righty Jedixson Paez, who was excellent, going 5 1/3 frames and allowing two runs off four hits while striking out 10.
The 23-year-old has made four starts this season, posting a 0-2 record with a 5.17 ERA. His first two outings didn’t go as expected for Sandlin, as he allowed six earned runs while issuing six walks. Sandlin was better over his next two outings, striking out 12 batters before landing on the injured list.
The Oklahoma product came over to the Red Sox in a deal that sent reliever John Schreiber to the Royals during spring training.
“We had identified him early on as someone that we think is on the rise and has the makings of a legitimate starting pitcher,” chief baseball officer Craig Breslow said.
“Loved the stuff, loved the makeup, and we’ve seen the stuff take a pretty significant step forward. Anytime you make these trades, you have to recognize that we’re trading a really talented pitcher over there, and that was difficult. Certainly wasn’t an easy decision. But, like I said, I feel like my job is to do what is best for the organization. And I think this is a chance to do that,” added Breslow.
