Eduardo Rodriguez hasn’t even been on the Red Sox 25-man roster for a full month, but so far he’s pitched like an ace.
In three trips to the mound this season, the 22-year old has been the kind of shot in the arm that some fans thought was only obtainable via a trade for a top tier arm. Suffice to say it’s a small sample size, but there is no arguing with the early results the Venezuela native has collected. Over his first 20.2 major league innings, Rodriguez has allowed just one run while striking out 21 and issuing just 7 free passes. Subsequently, Rodriguez holds a sparkling 3.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his first three outings.
Such a magnificent introduction to the major leagues certainly etched a spot in baseball history for the southpaw. Rodriguez became the first pitcher since 1914(!) to strikeout at least 7 batters in his first three trips to the hill. If that wasn’t enough, Elias Sports named Rodriguez the first pitcher in MLB history to go at least 6 innings while allowing no more than one run or three hits in each of his first three outings.
Currently, Rodriguez slots second in the recently reshuffled Red Sox starting staff; behind Clay Buchholz and in front of Rick Porcello. While only time will tell if Rodriguez can continue to be a dominate top of the rotation arm, but for right now, he’s been just what the team needs.
- I think we can all agree that Hanley Ramirez’ move to the outfield hasn’t been the smoothest of transitions so far, but the 30-year old is confident in his ability to learn his new position. (Hanley Ramirez has no intention of ever returning to infield)
- A small gesture by Athletics third baseman Brett Lawrie could go a long way in helping the victim of the shattered bat incident at Fenway Park recover from her injuries. (Brett Lawrie sends flowers and note to recovering fan struck by bat)
- In the midst of a breakout season, Tommy Layne is emerging as a highly sought after trade target as the July 31st traded deadline draws nearer. If Boston falls further out of contention, Layne, whom the team picked up for next to nothing, could bring back a handsome return. (Boston Red Sox trade value: Tommy Layne could be the lefty specialist a contender overpays for)
- Despite Matt Barnes’ and Junichi Tazawa’s possible future at the back end of the Sox bullpen, Boston looks to have a closer waiting in the wings in the recently promoted Pat Light. (Report: Pat Light promoted to Pawtucket)
- Tweet of the day: This is not good
The #RedSox have scored in one of their last 22 innings.
— Pete Abraham (@PeteAbe) June 10, 2015