Overview
- Crochet threw a roughly 20‑pitch side session on Tuesday that coaches described as a positive step toward postseason availability.
- The Red Sox plan to use him only in short relief or opener roles rather than rebuild him as a starter this month.
- A minor‑league rehab start is unlikely before Triple‑A Worcester’s season ends on Sept. 20 so the club expects any return to follow live batting practice or simulated games.
- Team officials stress they will not rush him back and want him to "look good" and "feel good," with early sessions showing reduced velocity in the upper‑80s that the staff expects to increase over time.
- Crochet’s 2025 AL Cy Young runner‑up season and his six‑year, $170 million extension make any healthy October availability materially important for Boston’s roster planning.