MLB: Three prospects that can impact playoff hunt
By David Hill
Tanner Houck
One has to wonder what the AL East would look like if the Boston Red Sox put Tanner Houck into their MLB rotation and left him there.
Houck has been excellent during his time in the majors this season. He has posted a stellar 2.45 ERA and a 1.130 WHiP in his 25.2 innings, striking out 36 batters with seven walks. It was understandable that the Red Sox had sent Houck down to start the season to work on his command, but that excuse just is not there any longer.
Instead, the Red Sox continued to turn the ball over to Garrett Richards and Martin Perez. The latter has already lost his place in the rotation, with the imminent return of Chris Sale necessitating an opening. It should not be much longer before Richards loses his as well, as the Red Sox will need Houck to solidify their push to the postseason.
Tanner Houck has been excellent for the Red Sox when given the chance. As they are fighting for a playoff spot, it is time that he sticks in the rotation for good.