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Red Sox Ace Crochet Feels Good Despite No Strikeouts in Spring Debut
The 2025 AL Cy Young runner-up debuted a new splitter pitch in a scoreless outing against the Rays.
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet delivered two scoreless innings in his spring training debut against the Tampa Bay Rays, though he expressed disappointment at not recording any strikeouts. Crochet, who finished as the runner-up for the AL Cy Young Award last season, debuted a new splitter pitch that he believes could be an effective weapon against right-handed hitters.
Why it matters
Crochet's health and performance in spring training are crucial as the Red Sox look to build on their success from last season. The team is also evaluating potential starting players, with infielder Caleb Durbin and prospect Justin Gonzales standing out in the game.
The details
Despite the successful outing, Crochet said he hadn't recorded a strikeout, something he hadn't experienced in years. He also debuted a new splitter pitch that he believes could be an effective weapon against right-handed hitters. Payton Tolle pitched 1 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on three hits, while Trevor Story led the Red Sox offense, going 2 for 3 with two doubles and two RBI. Aroldis Chapman made his spring debut, recording three strikeouts in a scoreless inning.
- The Red Sox defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 7-5 on Thursday.
The players
Garrett Crochet
The Red Sox ace who finished as the runner-up for the AL Cy Young Award last season.
Caleb Durbin
A second-year infielder for the Red Sox who showcased strong defensive skills at second base.
Justin Gonzales
A 19-year-old top Red Sox prospect who displayed impressive power with a 110 mph lineout.
Brayan Bello
The Red Sox pitcher scheduled to start against the Atlanta Braves on Friday.
Chris Sale
The former Red Sox ace expected to start for the Atlanta Braves on Friday.
What they’re saying
“I don't know the last time I had an outing without a strikeout, it's probably been four or five years, so I'm going to not probably sleep that well tonight.”
— Garrett Crochet (newsy-today.com)
What’s next
Manager Alex Cora plans to give Marcelo Mayer playing time at second base on Friday, with Durbin scheduled for at least one more game at the position this weekend.
The takeaway
Crochet's performance in spring training is a key focus for the Red Sox as they look to build on their success from last season. The team is also evaluating potential starting players, with Durbin and Gonzales standing out in the game, and Crochet's new splitter pitch could be a valuable addition to his arsenal.
