Boston faced a 4-2 defeat at home against the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, and interim manager Chad Tracy confirmed that ace pitcher Garrett Crochet is now dealing with a low‑grade lat strain. The injury surfaced after Crochet felt tightness during batting practice, prompting an MRI that identified the minor muscle issue and ruled out a serious tear, allowing optimism.

Crochet entered the season on a 3-3 record with a 6.30 ERA before being placed on the 15‑day IL on April 29 due to shoulder inflammation. His 2025 campaign featured an 18-5 ledger and a 2.59 ERA, underscoring the stark contrast between last year’s dominance and this year’s early struggles. His absence also forced the team to rely on inexperienced starters, stretching the bullpen.

Tracy said Crochet can resume throwing as soon as he is asymptomatic, and the medical staff is already moving toward that goal. If the left‑hander returns soon, Boston’s rotation regains its ace, easing pressure on the bullpen and giving the club a chance to stay competitive in the AL East race. A swift recovery would also preserve the Red Sox’s chances for a playoff push.