UPDATE: The Boston Red Sox face a significant setback as right-hander Tanner Houck is set to undergo Tommie John surgery, ending his hopes of returning this season. Manager Alex Cora confirmed the news just moments ago before the Red Sox’s match against the Houston Astros at Fenway Park.
Houck, 29, has struggled this season, posting an 0-3 record with an alarming 8.04 ERA across nine starts. He was placed on the injured list in mid-May with a right flexor strain and was recently moved to the 60-day IL. Cora stated that Houck consulted with Dr. Keith Meister in Texas, who recommended the surgery. “We don’t have a date yet, but he’s going to have it,” Cora said.
This is a tough blow for both Houck and the Red Sox, who have already lost two other starting pitchers to season-ending injuries. Cora added, “Tough year for him, tough year for us. But he’ll kill the rehab, he’ll do his job, and when he comes back, he’s going to be OK.” Houck was an All-Star last season, finishing with a 2.54 ERA and an 8-6 record in the first half of the 2024 season.
As the team grapples with this loss, they have acquired right-hander Dustin May from the Los Angeles Dodgers at the trade deadline, hoping to strengthen their rotation. May is expected to make his first start for the Red Sox on Wednesday at Fenway. “It was definitely a ride of emotions,” May said about his move to Boston. “Sad leaving because I’ve been there my whole career, but very, very excited to be joining this organization.”
With Houck’s surgery looming, fans and players alike are eager to see how the Red Sox will navigate the remainder of the season. This latest development is a reminder of the unpredictability of baseball, as the team looks to recover from a series of injuries and maintain their competitive edge.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and follow the Red Sox’s journey as they adapt to these changes.