Richard Fitts on Comeback Trail After Successful Batting Practice at Fenway
BOSTON — Red Sox pitcher Richard Fitts took a significant step towards recovery this Saturday, throwing a productive 40-pitch live batting practice session at Fenway Park. The 25-year-old right-hander has been sidelined since April 13 due to a right pectoral strain, but expressed optimism about his progress.
“I haven’t had pain in about a week or two, and just building up from there,” Fitts remarked, noting that the session went "really well." Manager Alex Cora hinted at the possibility of a rehab start for Fitts “late next week,” should all go smoothly.
Fitts highlighted the importance of communication with Cora regarding his next steps, stating, “One-hundred percent, I’m ready to get back and compete. I want to help the team win as much as I can.” Prior to his injury, Fitts made a strong impression, allowing just six runs over 17 innings, giving him a solid 3.18 ERA and holding opponents to a .226 batting average.
Fitts’s four-seam fastball, averaging 94.7 mph, proved effective, with hitters managing only four hits in 20 at-bats against it. The pitcher is eager to return to the mound but also emphasizes the need to be fully prepared. “I don’t want to rush back and then not help the team," he said.
Cora echoed Fitts’s eagerness: “He threw the ball well. We’ll see how he feels tomorrow and then from there we’ll map it out.” With the team’s support and Fitts’s determination, a return to action appears on the horizon for the promising young talent.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
