Get ready for an exciting baseball season, because the Boston Red Sox are gearing up with a powerful pitching lineup!
The Red Sox's Starting Pitching Depth: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has made some significant moves this offseason, bolstering the team's starting pitching depth. The signings of Ranger Suarez and Sonny Gray, along with the trade for Johan Oviedo, have created a formidable trio behind ace Garrett Crochet. Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, Connelly Early, Kyle Harrison, and Patrick Sandoval further strengthen the rotation, making the Red Sox a nine-deep pitching powerhouse.
But here's where it gets interesting...
The Left-Handed Relief Conundrum
While the starting pitching looks solid, the Red Sox roster lacks left-handed relief options. Aroldis Chapman is the only left-handed reliever on the 40-man roster with extensive big league experience. This presents an opportunity for a left-handed prospect to make their mark and 'crack' the major league roster.
Enter Shane Drohan, a 27-year-old hard-throwing left-hander with an impressive track record. Drohan's 2025 season with Triple-A Worcester saw him dominate, posting a 2.27 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and a strikeout percentage of 35.2%. He held opponents to a mere .185 batting average in 12 outings, showcasing his potential.
The Modern Game: Starting Pitchers Turning to the Bullpen
Drohan understands the modern game's dynamics, recognizing that many starting pitchers have had to prove themselves through bullpen roles. He believes this path could be his ticket to the big leagues, regardless of whether he starts or relieves.
Drohan's experience in the White Sox system in 2024, where he primarily worked out of the bullpen, taught him valuable lessons. He learned to streamline his routine, reducing anxiety and improving his performance.
The Slider: Drohan's Secret Weapon
Last season, Drohan added a new slider to his arsenal, and it quickly became his go-to secondary pitch. With impressive whiff rates both in and out of the zone, the slider has been a game-changer for him. Drohan's cutter also underwent a transformation, gaining more lift and holding its plane, creating an even more effective pitch combination.
The Changeup Comeback
While Drohan focused on his slider last season, his changeup, once considered his top secondary pitch, took a backseat. This offseason, he's working hard to bring the changeup back to its former glory, with positive results already showing.
A Proud Moment: Added to the 40-Man Roster
Being added to the 40-man roster was a proud moment for Drohan, especially after going through the Rule 5 Draft process two years prior. He believes in himself and his abilities, and this opportunity with the Red Sox is a testament to his hard work and talent.
The Opening Day Roster: A Chance for Drohan?
As the Red Sox prepare for the 2026 season, the question remains: Will Shane Drohan make the Opening Day roster? With his impressive left-handed pitching and a streamlined routine, he could be the missing piece in the Red Sox's left-handed relief puzzle.
So, will Drohan 'crack' the major league roster? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: the Red Sox's pitching depth is looking mighty impressive!
