Now, as spring training rolls on, top star is focused on making a full recovery and returning to form. While the Red Sox have not placed a firm timeline on his return, they are optimistic about his progress. Given that this was his second UCL repair surgery, Boston is expected to be cautious with his workload, possibly easing him back into a bullpen role before considering a return to the rotation.
His early-season success in 2024 showed his potential as a key contributor when healthy. With a career ERA of 3.51 and a track record of effectiveness in both starting and relief roles, his return could provide a significant boost to a Red Sox pitching staff that is looking for stability.
The next few months will be crucial as Whitlock ramps up his throwing program. If all goes well, he could rejoin the team sometime in the second half of the 2025 season, though Boston will prioritize his long-term health over any short-term needs.
If Whitlock is indeed ready for Opening Day, it would be a major boost for the Red Sox, who are looking to solidify their pitching staff after an up-and-down 2024 season. While his exact role remains unclear, Boston has the flexibility to use him as either a starter or a multi-inning reliever, depending on how his arm responds to the workload.
Given that the internal brace procedure has a shorter recovery time than traditional Tommy John surgery, Whitlock’s progress is encouraging. The Red Sox will still need to monitor his innings carefully, especially early in the season, but Cora’s confidence suggests that the team believes he can be a key contributor from the start.
With Lucas Giolito also on track to return, Boston could be looking at a significantly improved rotation or bullpen compared to last season. If both pitchers stay healthy, they could be vital pieces in the Red Sox’s push to compete in a tough AL East.
Alex Cora is ‘100 percent’ certain Garrett Whitlock will be ready for game action by Red Sox Opening Day
Moving Whitlock to the bullpen makes a lot of sense for the Red Sox, given his injury history and success in a relief role earlier in his career. When healthy, he has shown the ability to dominate over multiple innings, making him a valuable asset in high-leverage situations.
The closer competition will be interesting, especially with veterans like Hendriks and Chapman in the mix. Even if Whitlock doesn’t win the ninth-inning role, his ability to pitch multiple innings could make him a weapon in the middle-to-late innings, bridging the gap to the closer.
The biggest question, as always with Whitlock, is durability. If the Red Sox can manage his workload effectively, he could be one of the most impactful arms in their bullpen this season. Cora’s confidence in a breakout year suggests that Boston is optimistic about his ability to stay on the field and contribute at a high level.