PT TOMORROW: AL East—Kimbrel’s health among division’s biggest questions

Boston Red Sox

One of the bigger concerns floating around the Red Sox is the health of the team’s closer, Craig Kimbrel (RHP, BOS), who had to be yanked from a save situation Aug. 9 after being unable to secure the final out and walking four batters.

Afterward, Kimbrel acknowledged that his left knee, on which he had surgery July 11 to repair a torn meniscus, was sore. Kimbrel had been expected to need three to six weeks to recover, but was back on the major league mound by Aug. 1, at the early end of that timeline.

Coming to the rescue in that Aug. 9 game was Matt Barnes (RHP, BOS) and his 96.8-mph average fastball, even though experienced closer Brad Ziegler (RHP, BOS) was available.

While Barnes got the job done, he was roughed up...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

What does the acquisition of Luisangel Acuña mean for the outfield picture in Chicago? Plus, a look at DET SS options, the catcher situation in KC, and the CLE and MIN rotations.
Jan 26 2026 3:03am
Ben Williamson is currently the projected third baseman for the Mariners, but a shakeup may be needed.
Jan 20 2026 3:01am
Chicago signed Bregman to a 5-year/$175 million deal, how does it impact their roster?
Jan 15 2026 3:09am
Coby Mayo (pictured) and Ryan Mountcastle have been squeezed from regular reps in BAL, while Triston Casas is in a similar spot in BOS; plus, more offseason fallout from the AL East.
Jan 13 2026 3:01am
At the moment, Grant Taylor and Jordan Leasure would seem to have the inside track to Southside saves. Plus other post-Winter Meetings notes from around the AL Central.
Dec 19 2025 3:04am

Tools