Earlier today Bob talked about the progression of Garrett Whitlock and why it would be a good idea to start moving him towards a starter’s role to increase his own individual value. While I don’t disagree with the premise myself, that would also certainly take away from where the Boston Red Sox currently stand in their bullpen and create a big hole compared to the 2021 roster. Without Whitlock, their current late-inning situation would be a combination of Matt Barnes, Josh Taylor, and, um, Ryan Brasier? Hirokazu Sawamura? Darwinzon Hernandez? It’s not ideal.
So although many of us would agree that Whitlock is good enough that the team should be working to get him in the most valuable role possible, there clearly needs to be some additions in the bullpen when the lockout is lifted as well.