Red Sox Pitchers Progress in Rehab Assignments

Boston Red Sox pitchers Tanner Houck and Hunter Dobbins are both progressing in their rehab assignments with the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs. Houck is recovering from a right flexor pronator strain and is expected to make at least one more rehab start before a possible return, with his activation date still uncertain due to the upcoming All-Star break. Dobbins, sidelined by a right elbow strain, recently struck out eight over five innings while allowing just one run. Outfielder Masataka Yoshida, rehabbing from shoulder surgery, also contributed offensively for Portland. Prospect Payton Tolle impressed with eight strikeouts in four innings and earned his first professional save, fueling speculation about a future call-up. The Red Sox remain competitive as manager Alex Cora manages the timing of key returns during their American League wild card pursuit.