Red Sox Shut Down Prized Young Pitcher From Throwing For Rest Of Week

The start of spring training is bringing some false starts to various players pitchers around the league, the latest being the Boston Red Sox' top young arm, Brayan Bello.

He's been shut down at least through the weekend due to "forearm soreness" after his last bullpen session, according to manager Alex Cora. Bello won't throw again until at least Monday. 

Bello said the issue cropped up since he started throwing at camp this week. But Cora feels it's nothing to worry about.

Alex Cora explaining why the Red Sox have shutdown Brayan Bello until Monday.

Says Bello’s forearm soreness is “nothing to alarm” after it popped up during a recent bullpen session.pic.twitter.com/p9sCVCtjxN

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) February 17, 2023

“Nothing to alarm, but obviously, he’s so important to the organization... He’s important for what we’re trying to accomplish. He’ll be back on his throwing program on Monday,” Cora said.

The 23-year-old top pitching prospect debuted in July last season and made 11 starts for the Red Sox. He got roughed up a bit, posting a 4.71 ERA and an unsightly 1.78 WHIP (yikes). But his work in the minors last season gave them a much better look at the potential Bello holds, as he posted a 2.34 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP, along with 12.1 K/9 in 17 starts across AA and AAA. 

He's expected to be a major part of the Boston rotation in 2023, though no spot is locked up just yet. The health of James Paxton and Chris Sale could be a big determining factor. Others with certain rotation spots are Nick Pivetta and Garrett Whitlock. 

Photo: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports