Red Sox Ace Struggles in Final Spring Tuneup

Garrett Crochet allows six runs in 5.1 innings against Braves before Opening Day

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:54pm

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Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet had a rough final spring training outing, allowing six runs over 5.1 innings in a loss to the Atlanta Braves. Crochet gave up six hits, two walks, and a home run, struggling particularly against Braves hitters like Austin Riley, who hit a solo home run and two doubles against the lefty.

Why it matters

While spring training stats don't always translate to the regular season, Crochet's struggles in his final tuneup before Opening Day raise some concerns about his readiness for the start of the season. The Red Sox will need their ace to be sharp if they hope to compete in the AL East.

The details

Crochet was charged with six runs on six hits, two walks, and a hit batter over 5.1 innings. He recorded three strikeouts on 89 pitches. Braves third baseman Austin Riley hit a solo home run and two doubles against Crochet, who also gave up RBI singles to Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies in a three-run third inning for Atlanta.

  • Crochet's final spring training start was on March 21, 2026.
  • The Red Sox open the 2026 regular season on Thursday, March 26.

The players

Garrett Crochet

The Red Sox's ace pitcher who struggled in his final spring training outing before Opening Day.

Austin Riley

The Atlanta Braves third baseman who hit a solo home run and two doubles against Crochet.

Tommy Kahnle

A newly signed reliever who made his Red Sox debut with a scoreless eighth inning in the same game.

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What’s next

Crochet will take the mound for the Red Sox on Opening Day against the Cincinnati Reds, where he'll look to put his spring struggles behind him.

The takeaway

While spring training results don't always translate to the regular season, Crochet's final tuneup before Opening Day raises some concerns about his readiness. The Red Sox will need their ace to be sharp if they hope to compete in the AL East this season.