Red Sox' Garrett Crochet scratched from start, but don't panic

Boston's star pitcher will pitch in a minor league game instead as the team lines up its rotation for the start of the season.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:03pm

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Boston Red Sox star pitcher Garrett Crochet was scratched from a scheduled Grapefruit League start on Sunday against the Twins, but it's not a cause for concern. The Red Sox are simply lining up Crochet's workload and the rotation for the start of the 2026 MLB season, with Crochet set to pitch in a minor league game later this week instead.

Why it matters

Crochet is a key part of the Red Sox's deep starting rotation as they look to contend for a World Series title in 2026. Ensuring he's properly rested and prepared for the start of the season is crucial, even if it means missing a Grapefruit League start.

The details

Red Sox manager Alex Cora said the team is "rearranging a few things schedule-wise" to line up Crochet's workload and the entire rotation for the start of the season against the Cincinnati Reds. Crochet will pitch in a Triple-A game on Monday and throw around 75 pitches.

  • Crochet was scratched from his Grapefruit League start on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • Crochet will pitch in a minor league game on Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Garrett Crochet

A star pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who nearly won the Cy Young award in 2025.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

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What they’re saying

“We have to rearrange a few things schedule-wise and kind of like lining up things for not only for him, but the whole group for Cincinnati.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

What’s next

The Red Sox will continue to monitor Crochet's workload and prepare the starting rotation for the season opener against the Cincinnati Reds.

The takeaway

The Red Sox are taking a cautious approach with their star pitcher Garrett Crochet, prioritizing his long-term health and readiness for the start of the 2026 season over exhibition game appearances. This demonstrates the team's commitment to fielding a competitive roster while also protecting its key assets.