Red Sox Flamethrower ‘Put Himself On Map’ For Roster Contention
The Red Sox need to put the finishing touches on the bullpen, and an interesting name emerged for roster contention.
Boston on Saturday reportedly cut Adam Ottavino and Matt Moore. The pair of relievers had opt-outs in their contracts, so a decision needed to be made this weekend.
Alex Cora confirmed the bullpen locks are Aroldis Chapman, Justin Wilson, Justin Slaten, Garrett Whitlock and Liam Hendriks. That leaves three spots remaining with these pitches competing for them: Brennan Bernardino, Cooper Criswell, Zack Kelly, Bryan Mata and Greg Weissert.
Mata was an interesting name since the former top pitching prospect wasn’t thought of as an Opening Day contender. But the 25-year-old made an impression in the spring.
“He has put himself on the map,” Cora told reporters Saturday, per WEEI’s Rob Bradford.
Mata’s numbers don’t jump off the page with a 12.00 ERA and five strikeouts in three innings. However, the work he’s put in stood out to the coaching staff.
“He’s throwing the (expletive) out of the ball. He’s throwing 98, 99 throwing strikes, good changeup, good slider,” Cora said, per MLB.com’s Ian Browne. “He’s throwing strikes and he’s healthy, which is the most important thing.”
Mata’s health played a large part in delaying his development and seemed like the biggest obstacle to him seeing time in the majors. The Red Sox also need to decide on the final spot on the rotation, which could dictate whether or not Mata will be considered for the bullpen.
The right-hander was scheduled to pitch Saturday against the Tampa Bay Rays. You can check out coverage of the Grapefruit League game on NESN and NESN 360.