On Thursday afternoon, as the Boston Red Sox prepared to face the Cleveland Guardians at home, they could rely on a well-rested bullpen thanks to Tanner Houck’s performance the previous day.
Houck’s complete game in Boston’s 2-0 victory on Wednesday ensured that the bullpen had ample rest.
He allowed only three hits, all singles, and struck out nine batters without issuing a single walk. Throughout the game, Houck efficiently managed his pitches, never throwing more than 13 in any inning.
“It seemed like he was just playing catch with (catcher Connor Wong),” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “There was never a thought of going to the bullpen, to be honest with you. That was his game and whatever happens, happens. We felt like he was going to keep the ball in the ballpark so just roll with him. He was really good.”
The victory came after Cleveland won the first two games of the four-game series. The Guardians prevailed 6-0 on Monday and 10-7 in 11 innings on Tuesday.
“Huge win because if we win (Thursday) we save the series,” Cora said. “The bullpen needed it. We all needed it.”
Last season, the Red Sox did not witness a complete-game pitching performance. Their last complete game was delivered by Michael Wacha, who shut out the Los Angeles Angels on June 6, 2022.
On Wednesday, Cleveland’s three-game winning streak came to an end.
“I don’t know if he can pitch much better than he did tonight,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said of Houck. “You have to tip your cap. That was an outstanding performance by him. … Everything was working for him.”
Wong continued his impressive performance at the plate, securing two hits, including a solo home run. Over the past six games, Wong has been on fire, boasting a batting average of .444 with three home runs and seven RBIs.
In addition to Wong’s contribution, Jarren Duran also tallied two hits for the Red Sox. However, Rafael Devers, serving as the designated hitter on Wednesday due to left knee soreness, struggled, striking out three times in four at-bats without any hits.
On Thursday, the Guardians plan to start right-hander Carlos Carrasco, who holds a record of 0-1 with a 3.55 ERA. In his previous outing, Carrasco suffered a loss against the New York Yankees, allowing one run on five hits while walking five batters in 4 2/3 innings. Throughout his career, Carrasco has struggled against the Red Sox, posting a 1-4 record with an 8.29 ERA.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox are expected to utilize Brennan Bernardino as an opener for Thursday’s game. Bernardino, with a record of 0-1 and a 1.69 ERA, will be making his first start of the season. Although he has primarily pitched in relief against the Guardians, Bernardino has managed a decent record, going 1-1 with a 1.59 ERA in 5 2/3 innings.
Additionally, manager Alex Cora mentioned that right-hander Cooper Criswell will also see action on Thursday. Criswell, with a record of 0-0 and a 4.50 ERA, delivered a solid performance in his previous start against the Los Angeles Angels, allowing two runs in four innings while striking out four batters and walking one. He has yet to face Cleveland in his career.