Garrett Whitlock: The Red Sox’s Bullpen Asset in Aroldis Chapman’s Shadow
Relief pitchers often find themselves in the unenviable position of playing second fiddle to closers, and in this regard, the Boston Red Sox are no different. While Aroldis Chapman has rightfully garnered attention for his electric performances—most recently lowering his ERA to an impressive 0.98 after striking out four batters in a single inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks—there’s another name in the mix that deserves equal recognition: Garrett Whitlock.
Whitlock’s Dominance Shines Through
In a pivotal game that the Red Sox were determined to win, Whitlock emerged as the unsung hero. After Zack Kelly faltered, surrendering a 4-3 lead and leaving two runners on base with the top of the Diamondbacks’ order looming, the pressure was on. Whitlock entered the fray, facing a precarious situation with runners on first and second and only one out.
In a display of poise and skill, Whitlock struck out Geraldo Perdomo, the Diamondbacks’ most troublesome hitter, and navigated through Ketel Marte to escape the jam. He then dominated the heart of the Arizona lineup in the eighth inning, dispatching the 3-4-5 hitters with remarkable efficiency, using just 18 pitches. This kind of performance has become a staple for Whitlock, who boasts a 2.48 ERA and has struck out 79 batters over 65 1/3 innings this season.
The Case for Whitlock’s Recognition
Despite the spotlight often shining on Chapman, it’s time to acknowledge Whitlock’s contributions. Since July 1, his 0.74 ERA stands second only to Chapman’s 0.43 among all major league relief pitchers. The synergy between the two pitchers forms a formidable one-two punch for the Red Sox, making the late innings a daunting task for opponents.
The Red Sox secured Whitlock with a four-year, $18.75 million extension before the 2022 season—a decision that continues to pay dividends. Now firmly positioned as a setup man following the end of his starting pitching experiment, Whitlock has established himself as one of the most reliable options in the bullpen.
Future Outlook for the Red Sox Bullpen
With Whitlock under team control through 2028, the Red Sox have a solid foundation for their bullpen. His ability to consistently deliver impactful innings allows the team to confidently hand the ball to Chapman in the ninth, knowing that the game is often in safe hands leading up to that moment.
As the season unfolds, it’s essential for fans and analysts alike to recognize not just the accolades of closers but also the crucial roles played by setup men like Whitlock. In the grand theater of baseball, every pitch matters, and Garrett Whitlock’s contributions are shaping the narrative of the Red Sox bullpen dominance.
