Red Sox Place Struggling Jordan Hicks on 15-Day Injured List

Jordan Hicks, acquired by the Boston Red Sox in the June Rafael Devers trade, has struggled significantly with an 8.20 ERA over 21 appearances, leading the team to place him on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder injury ahead of their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Red Sox are expected to call up left-hander Chris Murphy from Triple-A Worcester to bolster their bullpen. While injuries could be contributing to Hicks' poor performance, some speculate the timing of the IL placement might be a strategic move by the Red Sox amidst their playoff push, given Hicks' substantial contract and ongoing struggles. Manager Alex Cora emphasized the need to figure Hicks out due to the team's reliance on effective right-handed bullpen support. Hicks' season could effectively be over, as he may remain on the IL through the end of the regular season, with two more years left on his $44 million contract. The Red Sox had hoped Hicks would serve as a late-inning complement but have instead been forced to use him in low-leverage situations due to his performance issues.