Red Sox Adjust Rotation With Multiple Rookie MLB Debuts Amid Injury Crisis

The Boston Red Sox are navigating a challenging pitching rotation due to numerous injuries and the release of veteran Walker Buehler. Rookie pitchers Connelly Early and Payton Tolle have been called upon to fill key starting roles, with Early impressing in his major league debut by striking out 11 batters over five scoreless innings. The team is also considering using Kyle Harrison, acquired in a major trade, who recently returned from a minor injury and may serve in a long relief or starting role. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged the uncertainty and emphasized the need to evaluate options carefully, especially as the team approaches the postseason. The Red Sox plan to keep their top three starters—Garrett Crochet, Brayan Bello, and Lucas Giolito—on regular rest while mixing and matching other pitchers to cover the remaining rotation spots. With at least seven pitchers sidelined and others still unproven at the major league level, Boston faces a complex decision-making process for its pitching staff moving forward.