Intriguing Red Sox Prospect Has Shined In Spring Training; May Even Earn Spot In Starting Rotation

Boston has gotten impressive play of Crawford so far in spring training

Spring training has gotten off to a great start for the Boston Red Sox. 

Boston enters Monday's tilt against the Detroit Tigers as the last undefeated squad remaining in the Grapefruit League. The Red Sox have gotten impressive performances from not only expected starters but also some prospects who have certainly stood out. 

One youngster who has shined in his opportunities so far in spring training is right-handed hurler Kutter Crawford. The 26-year-old has made two appearances so far for Boston in Grapefruit League action and has yet to allow an earned run in a team-leading five innings pitched. 

Crawford has made an appearance out of the bullpen as well as a start and has allowed just two base hits so far in spring. The young hurler also has struck out five batters so far in spring. He also is second on the team among pitchers with more than one appearance with a minuscule 0.40 WHIP. 

The right-handed pitcher made his Major League Baseball debut in 2021 but appeared in just one game. He had a bigger role in 2022 and made 12 starts and appeared in 21 games overall and compiled a 5.47 ERA. 

Crawford's impressive play couldn't have come at a better time. With Brayan Bello, Garrett Whitlock, and James Paxton all dealing with various injuries, there may be an opening in Boston's starting rotation to kick off the 2023 campaign. If Crawford can maintain his current level of play, he likely is a shoo-in to nab one of the spots for at least the beginning of the season. 

Boston will open the 2023 campaign with seven games in eight days so it may need an extra arm anyway, and Crawford easily could fill in. Some other potential options also have been impressive in camp like Josh Winckowski or Brandon Walter, but Crawford may be the most likely option for the Red Sox at this moment. 

There's still plenty of time left before Opening Day on March 30, but Crawford at least is making a case for himself. 

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