The Boston Red Sox's trade deadline did not go according to plan, as the injury bug quickly visited three of their four big-league acquisitions.
The Red Sox acquired Luis García and Lucas Sims to bring depth to the exhausted bullpen. On Aug. 27, both relievers landed on the 15-day injured list within hours of each other. Neither pitched well for Boston before their IL stints, but Sims will be given another chance.
The Sox activated Sims from the IL on Sept. 19 before their final game at Tropicana Field. The righty spent 23 days on the shelf with a lat strain in his throwing shoulder. Bailey Horn has been optioned to open a roster spot for Sims.
The former Cincinnati Red posted an 8.10 ERA in 10 innings before his move to the IL. His numbers with the Red Sox are a stark change compared to his stats in Cincinnati, where he clocked a 3.57 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 35.1 innings.
Red Sox trade deadline acquisition Lucas Sims reinstated from 15-day IL
The #RedSox today reinstated RHP Lucas Sims from the 15-Day Injured List.
— Red Sox (@RedSox) September 19, 2024
To make room, the club optioned LHP Bailey Horn to Triple-A Worcester.
Multiple reports have also placed García in Tampa Bay with the Red Sox, which means he may also be activated soon, although nothing has been confirmed. Sims and García have returned at an ideal time despite the Sox being on the brink of elimination from playoff contention. Kenley Jansen pitched through a shoulder injury in the ninth inning of Boston's Sept. 18 game, and he may be destined for a stint on the IL.
The 30-year-old Sims is an impending free agent — not only is he pitching for Boston's already slim playoff hopes, but for the best possible contract next season. Hopefully, Sims can get his season back on track and help the Sox's bullpen in the process.