Red Sox Seek Veteran Reinforcement Amid Slow Start

Injured pitcher Patrick Sandoval could provide bullpen or rotation depth for struggling Boston squad.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:03am

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The Boston Red Sox have stumbled out of the gate this season, posting a 2-7 record through their first nine games. With the exception of outfielder Wilyer Abreu, the Red Sox offense has struggled to produce consistently, while the starting rotation has also underperformed. In a potential boost, the team could soon get reinforcements in the form of veteran pitcher Patrick Sandoval, who is nearing a return from injury and could provide depth in either the bullpen or starting rotation.

Why it matters

The Red Sox entered the 2026 season with high expectations to be among the top teams in the American League, so their slow start has been surprising and concerning for the franchise and its passionate fan base. Sandoval's potential return could help stabilize the pitching staff and provide a veteran presence to help the team get back on track.

The details

Through nine games, the Red Sox have won just two contests, including a five-game losing streak. Outside of outfielder Wilyer Abreu, the offense has lacked consistent production. The starting rotation has also struggled, with Ranger Suárez and Brayan Bello both posting subpar outings. Sandoval, who was expected to make a rehab start on Sunday but had it pushed to Wednesday due to weather, said he feels 'pretty close' to being able to pitch in the majors again. If healthy, Sandoval could provide depth to either the bullpen or the starting rotation, depending on the team's needs.

  • The Red Sox started the 2026 season with a 2-7 record through their first 9 games.
  • Sandoval's rehab start was moved from Sunday, April 6 to Wednesday, April 9 due to inclement weather.

The players

Wilyer Abreu

An outfielder for the Boston Red Sox who has been the team's most consistent offensive performer so far this season.

Ranger Suárez

A starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who has struggled in his first two outings of the 2026 season.

Brayan Bello

A starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who had a poor outing in his first start of the 2026 season.

Patrick Sandoval

A veteran pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who is nearing a return from injury and could provide depth to the team's bullpen or starting rotation.

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What they’re saying

“I think pretty close, we're gonna have to take it outing by outing and, you know, see where the team thinks I am and where I am, and hopefully it matches up.”

— Patrick Sandoval

What’s next

Sandoval is scheduled to make a rehab start on Wednesday, April 9, which will be an important step in determining if he is ready to contribute at the major league level. The Red Sox will monitor his progress and performance to decide if and when to activate him from the injured list.

The takeaway

The Red Sox's slow start to the 2026 season has been surprising and concerning, but the potential return of veteran pitcher Patrick Sandoval could provide a much-needed boost to the team's pitching staff and help stabilize the roster as they look to turn things around.