Tanner Houck Rehab Start: Red Sox Pitcher Progresses after Injury
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Worcester, MA-Boston Red Sox right-hander Tanner Houck took a significant step in his recovery, making his first rehab start with the WooSox on Wednesday after being sidelined with a right flexor pronator strain [[2]]. This appearance marks his return to the mound since a challenging outing on may 12, where he allowed 11 runs.
Houck’s Rehab Outing Details
houck’s performance showed improvement as he pitched one-plus innings, conceding one run, two hits, and one walk. He threw a total of 32 pitches, with 18 landing for strikes. After a rapid two outs in the first inning, Houck encountered some trouble, allowing two singles before being pulled in the second after walking the lead-off batter. That runner eventually scored [[1]].
Did You Know? the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS) is used in Triple-A, allowing batters to appeal strike calls to an electronic strike zone.
Houck expressed relief and satisfaction with his return. “It felt good to be back, it felt good to be out there competing,” he stated. “I felt in sync… in terms of pitch shapes I like where everything’s at.”
Pitch Quality and Velocity
houck’s fastball consistently hit between 94-96 mph. He noted a significant improvement in his slider, which he adjusted to move horizontally rather than vertically, correcting a flaw that emerged last month. Proper slider movement is crucial for a pitcher’s effectiveness, as it induces weak contact and strikeouts .
Facing Max Scherzer
The rehab start featured a unique pitching matchup, as Houck faced off against future Hall of Famer Max scherzer, who was on a rehab assignment for the Toronto Blue Jays. Both pitchers share an alma mater, the University of Missouri. Scherzer lauded Houck’s work ethic and leadership. Scherzer pitched 4.1 scoreless innings, allowing one hit and two walks while striking out eight.
Next Steps for Houck
Houck is scheduled for another rehab start on Tuesday in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The plan is to gradually increase his pitch count to between 80 and 90 before he is expected to rejoin the Red Sox roster [[3]].
Pro Tip: Pitchers often use rehab assignments to fine-tune their mechanics and regain confidence after an injury.
Tanner Houck’s Rehab Start Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Innings Pitched | 1+ |
| Runs Allowed | 1 |
| Hits Allowed | 2 |
| Walks | 1 |
| Pitches Thrown | 32 |
| Strike Percentage | 56.25% (18/32) |
| fastball Velocity | 94-96 mph |
What are your expectations for Houck’s return to the Red Sox? How important is his role in the team’s pitching rotation?
Evergreen Insights on Pitcher Rehab Assignments
rehab assignments are a crucial part of a pitcher’s recovery process after an injury.They allow pitchers to gradually build up their arm strength and stamina in a less competitive habitat. These assignments also provide an chance to refine mechanics and regain confidence before returning to the high-pressure environment of Major League Baseball. The length and intensity of a rehab assignment vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual pitcher’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pitcher Rehab Starts
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What is a rehab start in baseball?
A rehab start is a minor league appearance by a Major League player recovering from an injury. It’s designed to help them regain form before returning to the MLB roster.
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How long do MLB rehab assignments last?
for pitchers, MLB rehab assignments typically last up to 30 days, but can be shorter depending on the injury and player progress.
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Why do pitchers need rehab assignments?
Pitchers need rehab assignments to rebuild arm strength, refine pitching mechanics, and regain confidence after an injury before facing MLB competition.
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What factors determine the length of a rehab assignment?
The severity of the injury, the pitcher’s progress, and the team’s needs all influence the duration of a rehab assignment.
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Can a pitcher be removed from a rehab assignment early?
Yes, a pitcher can be removed from a rehab assignment early if they are deemed ready to return to the MLB roster or if they experience a setback in their recovery.
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