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Red Sox: Options to fill in the rotation for injured Steven Wright

By Sean Penney

Apr 22, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Steven Wright (35) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles during a game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Steven Wright (35) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles during a game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 3, 2017; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brian Johnson (61) throws a pitch during the sixth inning of an MLB spring training baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2017; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brian Johnson (61) throws a pitch during the sixth inning of an MLB spring training baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Brian Johnson

The last time the Red Sox needed a spot starter they turned to Brian Johnson, with mixed results. He did earn the win and struck out six batters over five innings. He also walked four (one intentional) and gave up four runs, including a pair of homers.

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Johnson only has one other major league appearance on his resume, which came back in 2015 and ended with similar results. He now owns a 7.71 ERA and 1.82 WHIP in two career starts.

While he’s yet to find success in the big leagues, Johnson is having a solid season in Pawtucket. He ended up with a no-decision in all three of his starts but owns a 2.87 ERA. Walks have been his biggest problem, as he’s issued eight free passes in 15 2/3 innings. Considering he walked four batters in each of his career starts with the Red Sox, it’s certain to be a concern if they call him up again.

Exceptions would be low for Johnson given his previous track record at this level, although it’s not as if Pawtucket is overflowing with starting pitchers who have thrived in Boston before. Johnson is one of only two minor league starting pitchers on the Red Sox 40-man roster (not counting Workman, who is now on the active roster and not really a starter). That makes him a viable option in a scenario that lacks appealing options.

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