Red Sox Pitchers Crawford & Sandoval Inch Closer to Comeback

Veteran arms make progress in recovery, eye potential Opening Day return

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:04pm

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Veteran Red Sox pitchers Kutter Crawford and Patrick Sandoval are making strides in their comeback from injuries, taking significant steps like live batting practice at the team's spring training complex. While they may not be ready for Opening Day, the duo is determined to contribute to the team's pitching rotation as soon as possible, providing a welcome boost as the Red Sox navigate a unique early-season schedule.

Why it matters

Crawford and Sandoval's return is crucial for the Red Sox, who are facing a fierce competition for the final starting rotation spot and will need all hands on deck with a schedule that includes four off days in the first 22 days of the regular season. Their experience and talent could be a major factor in the team's success.

The details

Both Crawford and Sandoval have been working hard to recover from their respective injuries, and their progress was evident during live batting practice sessions at Fenway South. Sandoval threw two innings, and is expected to advance to multiple-inning bullpen sessions next week, while Crawford faced live hitters for the first time. While the pitchers acknowledge they may not be ready for Opening Day, they are determined to contribute to the team as soon as possible.

  • On Friday, Crawford and Sandoval took to the Fenway South complex for live batting practice.
  • Sandoval is expected to continue with multiple-inning bullpen sessions next week.
  • Crawford will soon advance to a two-inning session after facing live hitters for the first time.

The players

Kutter Crawford

A veteran Red Sox pitcher who is making progress in his comeback from injury and hopes to contribute to the team's pitching rotation as soon as possible.

Patrick Sandoval

A veteran Red Sox pitcher who is also working his way back from injury and is determined to be a part of the team's pitching staff for the majority of the season.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who has expressed excitement about the progress made by Crawford and Sandoval and their potential to contribute to the team.

Brendan Rodgers

A Red Sox infielder who is dealing with a shoulder injury, which is a significant blow to the team's lineup.

Alec Gamboa

A Red Sox left-hander who is dealing with an elbow issue and is expected to be reassessed in the coming days.

Mikey Romero

A Red Sox infielder who is nursing a tight back and is also expected to be reassessed in the coming days.

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What they’re saying

“The progress is evident. Both Crawford and Sandoval have shown great improvement, and we're excited to see them take the next steps in their recovery.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

“I don't want to set expectations too high, but I plan on being a part of this team for the majority of the season.”

— Kutter Crawford

“Opening Day might be a stretch, but I'm determined to contribute as soon as I can.”

— Patrick Sandoval

What’s next

The Red Sox will continue to monitor the progress of Crawford and Sandoval, as well as the status of injured players Brendan Rodgers, Alec Gamboa, and Mikey Romero, in the coming days and weeks leading up to the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

The return of veteran pitchers Kutter Crawford and Patrick Sandoval is crucial for the Red Sox, as they provide valuable experience and talent to a pitching rotation that faces a unique early-season schedule and fierce competition for the final starting spot. Their comeback progress is a welcome sign for the team and its fans, who are eager to see the duo contribute to the team's success.