Red Sox Grapple with Injuries to Kutter Crawford, Brayan Bello, and Wilyer Abreu

Injury concerns are already mounting for the Boston Red Sox as spring training gets underway, with starting pitchers Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello both facing uncertain timelines.

Crawford has been dealing with persistent discomfort in his right patellar tendon, an issue dating back to last April. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged that his availability for Opening Day is uncertain, noting that the team is prioritizing his knee health to prevent any impact on his shoulder.

Meanwhile, Bello has been experiencing shoulder soreness since the start of camp. He is set to undergo a strength test as the Red Sox continue to monitor his condition. Unlike Crawford, Bello has been able to throw, though he has yet to participate in a bullpen session. Cora indicated that Crawford’s recovery appears to be the bigger concern of the two.

With over a month until the season opener, Boston has time to manage these setbacks. However, if either pitcher starts the year on the injured list, depth options like Cooper Criswell, Richard Fitts, Quinn Priester, or Michael Fulmer could step in. Cora confirmed the team will use a five-man rotation to begin the season, with Garrett Crochet, Tanner Houck, and Walker Buehler likely filling key roles, while Lucas Giolito’s availability remains uncertain as he recovers from surgery.

Beyond the pitching staff, outfielder Wilyer Abreu has been sidelined due to a gastrointestinal virus. The team is awaiting further test results before clearing him for baseball activities. While Abreu’s illness is improving, his timeline for return remains unclear.

With a demanding early-season schedule featuring 19 games in the first 20 days, the Red Sox will need to manage their roster carefully as they prepare for Opening Day.