March 12 Notes: Garrett Richards Bounces Back; 12 Players Sent Down

Garrett Richards started his third game of Spring Training on Friday afternoon after struggling in his first two appearances.

The former Padre starter bounced back, allowing no runs and one hit. He did walk three batters which is certainly something he needs to work on if he wants to pitch later in games but overall, it was a solid outing.

Richards looks to be the Red Sox’s third or fourth starter behind Eduardo Rodriguez, Nathan Eovaldi, and Martin Perez.

Roster Moves Abound

In other news, the Red Sox decided to make some roster moves in regards to numerous minor leaguers who weren’t going to make the roster. Third baseman Hudson Potts, outfielder Jeisson Rosario, and pitchers Marcus Seabold and Marcus Wilson were optioned to the alternate site.

Catcher Jett Bandy, outfielder Gilberto Jimenez, infielders Chad De La Guerra and Jeter Downs, and pitchers Matt Hall, Kyle Hart, Caleb Simpson, and Ryan Weber were all reassigned to the minor leagues.

Downs is the biggest name among the group of reassigned players, as he was one of the headliners in the Mookie Betts trade. He isn’t ready to be in the big leagues yet, especially with Kike Hernandez blocking him at second base.

One name who wasn’t included was 2020 first round pick Nick Yorke. Yorke was drafted out of high school as a second baseman and has tremendous power for such a young player. He will be reassigned or sent to the alternate site before camp is over but the Red Sox want to get him as much experience as they possibly can after the minor league season was canceled last year.

Xander’s 2021 Debut

Xander Bogaerts made his Grapefruit League 2021 debut after dealing with a shoulder injury. He went 0-for-2 hitting in front of JD Martinez.

Photo: (Andrew West – The News-Press)