Red Sox Await Clarity on Kutter Crawford Injury as MRI Results Loom

Boston's pitching depth has been tested early, with Crawford and Sandoval both on rehab assignments.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of red, blue, and green, conveying the uncertainty and fragmentation of the Red Sox's pitching situation.The Red Sox's pitching depth is tested as they await news on Kutter Crawford's elbow injury.Boston Today

The Boston Red Sox are awaiting the results of an MRI on pitcher Kutter Crawford's elbow/forearm injury. Crawford, a key depth piece for the team's rotation, has been on a minor league rehab assignment but had to pause it due to the injury. The Red Sox are hoping the issue is not serious, as Crawford is an important part of their pitching depth this season.

Why it matters

The Red Sox rotation has been a strength on paper, but the team has already faced some early challenges with injuries and depth. Crawford's status is crucial, as he could be a rotation candidate or bullpen option if healthy. Any extended absence would further test the team's pitching depth.

The details

Crawford has made one minor league appearance so far in his rehab assignment, while fellow pitcher Patrick Sandoval has made two. Sandoval is closer to returning than Crawford, as Crawford's rehab was paused due to the elbow/forearm issue. The Red Sox are awaiting the results of Crawford's MRI, which should come on Sunday, to determine the extent of the injury.

  • Crawford made one minor league rehab appearance before the injury.
  • Sandoval has made two minor league rehab appearances so far.
  • The Red Sox are expecting to receive the results of Crawford's MRI on Sunday, April 19.

The players

Kutter Crawford

A key depth pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who is currently on a minor league rehab assignment but is dealing with an elbow/forearm injury.

Patrick Sandoval

Another Red Sox pitcher who is on a minor league rehab assignment and is closer to returning than Crawford.

Garrett Crochet

Part of the Red Sox's Opening Day rotation.

Sonny Gray

Part of the Red Sox's Opening Day rotation.

Brayan Bello

Part of the Red Sox's Opening Day rotation.

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What they’re saying

“Kutter Crawford said postgame he's waiting for his doctor to review the results of the MRI on his elbow/forearm and discuss them with him Sunday, so there should be more there tomorrow.”

— Chris Cotillo, MassLive.com reporter

What’s next

The Red Sox are hoping that Crawford's injury is not serious, as he could be a rotation or bullpen option for the team if healthy. The team will receive the results of his MRI on Sunday and provide an update on his status.

The takeaway

The Red Sox's pitching depth has been tested early this season, with injuries to key depth pieces like Crawford and Sandoval. The team is hoping Crawford's issue is not serious, as he could provide important rotation or bullpen support if he can return to health soon.