Farrell sticking with Porcello to end first half
Red Sox's manager opts to use Masterson out of bullpen until All-Star break
BOSTON -- With off-days on Monday and Thursday, the Red Sox had the option of bypassing the struggling Rick Porcello until after the All-Star break, but manager John Farrell will give the righty the ball on Wednesday against the Marlins.
Justin Masterson, who was hit hard in his second start back from the disabled list, will be used exclusively out of the bullpen for the rest of the week.
In 16 starts this season, Porcello is 4-9 with a 6.08 ERA. In his last eight starts, the right-hander is 0-7 with an 8.18 ERA.
"Didn't want him to go 2 1/2 to three weeks without being in a game situation," said Farrell. "That will put Justin Masterson in the bullpen starting on Tuesday for the remainder of this homestand. That's where we are."
Ultimately, Farrell decided there was more of a benefit to letting Porcello try to end the half on a good note than shying away from him.
"He's a strong competitor," Farrell said. "He fully realizes the stretch he's in and what we're trying to do to get him to be consistent with his two-seamer and his curveball approach. You can throw all the bullpen [sessions] you want, and his bullpens have been quality. But it's the in-game execution where that's got to continue to be put forth."
Porcello's slump started not long after catcher Ryan Hanigan went on the disabled list. The righty has had a hard time getting into a rhythm with Blake Swihart and Sandy Leon.
"To match him up with [catcher Ryan Hanigan] is the approach being taken. We're doing everything that we can that's available to us to get him on the right track," said Farrell.