Red Sox to Use Opener Strategy Against Orioles in Series Opener
NEW YORK — The Boston Red Sox are set to implement an opener strategy for just the second time this season, as lefty reliever Brennan Bernardino takes the mound Monday night in Baltimore. The decision comes as a surprise, particularly since Richard Fitts, currently on the roster, and Triple-A pitcher Kyle Harrison appeared to be front-runners for the start.
Harrison’s anticipated debut was sidestepped after he didn’t pitch in Worcester over the weekend. Instead, Bernardino, who has a history of making 10 career starts and a 2.93 ERA across 49 games this season, will aim to exploit matchups against Baltimore’s strong left-handed hitters. Bernardino pitched effectively in his recent outing, striking out two batters over 18 pitches in a relief role.
Fitts, who didn’t feature in Boston’s recent four-game series against the Yankees, is poised to serve as the bulk reliever following Bernardino. This strategy enables the Red Sox to avoid roster changes, eliminating the need to call up Harrison. The Orioles, for their part, will counter with rookie pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano in the opener.
The series continues with Lucas Giolito, Brayan Bello, and Garrett Crochet slated to pitch in the subsequent games at Camden Yards. The Red Sox, having just come off a challenging series against the Yankees, will look to leverage their matchup advantages against the Orioles in this four-game set.
As the Red Sox aim for a stronger finish to the season, they hope this strategic move will pay dividends against a formidable opponent.
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