The Boston Red Sox have a potential problem in the back of their rotation. They have been unable to find a closer, with six different relievers having notched saves thus far in 2022. Matt Strahm leads the team with three saves heading into Friday, making the ninth inning a sore spot for a team with postseason aspirations.
Those issues make a closer one of the Red Sox most likely trade targets. However, they may have an internal option ready to take over once he is healthy in Chris Sale.
Chris Sale could have major impact on Boston Red Sox in unexpected way
This may not be as far-fetched as it would initially appear. The Red Sox are reportedly considering using Sale as a reliever for the remainder of 2022, a move that would accelerate his return to the majors.
It will still be some time before Sale returns regardless of his role. He still has not faced live batters and would need to begin a rehab assignment. The possible savior of the Red Sox bullpen will not be back in a matter of days.
Yet, there is a reason to hope that Sale can be the answer. With his dominant slider and impressive fastball, he could be the type of weapon the Red Sox need in the bullpen. They have also called upon him in that role before, as Alex Cora called upon Sale instead of Craig Kimbrel to get the final three outs to clinch the 2018 World Series.
Such a conversion, at least for this year, would make Sale the ultimate Wild Card. The Red Sox would then be able to focus on other areas of need, such as first base or the outfield. Chances are, he will be back in the rotation in 2023, leaving the Red Sox in need of a closer for next year. But that is a conversation for a different time.
The Boston Red Sox are considering bringing Chris Sale back as a reliever. If they do, he could be the answer to their ninth inning woes.