Home
Boston Red Sox fans clinging to hope for a turnaround amid the team’s dismal 1-4 start just got a sobering update: Rising star Brayan Bello remains sidelined with a right shoulder injury, and his return isn’t imminent. The 25-year-old righty, who inked a $55 million extension last offseason, has been sidelined since spring training, leaving a gaping hole in Boston’s rotation.
With the Red Sox set to face the St. Louis Cardinals soon, urgency is mounting—but will Bello’s rehab progress fast-track his comeback? Here’s the latest on his status and what it means for the struggling Sox.
Brayan Bello’s Rocky Rehab Road
Manager Alex Cora delivered a blunt assessment Thursday, stating Bello is “not close” to rejoining the rotation. The right-hander’s first rehab start with Triple-A Worcester this week was a mixed bag. While his fastball sizzled at 97 mph, he labored through 2.1 innings, surrendering four runs, four hits, and two walks.
Brayan Bello cruised early but unraveled in the third, loading the bases before reliever Hunter Dobbins allowed a backbreaking grand slam. Despite flashing dominance (five strikeouts), his command wavered, throwing 47 pitches with 68% strikes.
The Red Sox plan to proceed cautiously, scheduling at least two more minor-league outings to rebuild his stamina. His next start could come during Worcester’s home opener Tuesday, but expectations are tempered. “He needs time,” Cora emphasized, hinting Bello won’t bypass additional rehab.
From extension to uncertainty
Brayan Bello’s $55 million deal last winter signaled Boston’s faith in his frontline potential. Though inconsistent in 2024 (4.49 ERA over 30 starts), he anchored 20 team wins—a bright spot in an otherwise shaky rotation. Now, his delayed 2025 debut amplifies pressure on fill-ins Richard Fitts and Sean Newcomb, who’ve struggled to steady the ship.
Cardinals clash: Too soon?
With Bello’s second rehab start set for Sunday and a third likely next week, his timeline clashes with the Cardinals series. Even if he clears all hurdles, the Sox won’t rush him. Boston’s medical team is prioritizing long-term health over short-term fixes, meaning fans shouldn’t expect Bello until late April at the earliest.
Brayan Bello’s absence underscores a broader issue for the Red Sox: Their rotation lacks depth and experience. While his electric stuff tantalizes, durability concerns linger. For now, the Cardinals showdown will test Boston’s patchwork staff—and fans’ patience. If there’s a silver lining, it’s this: When Bello returns, he’ll carry not just fastballs, but the weight of a season already slipping away.
