Porcello Will Get Start For Red Sox In Potential Game 4 Vs. Indians
BOSTON (CBS) -- If the Red Sox make it to a Game 4 against the Cleveland Indians in the ALDS, they'll turn to their best pitcher in hopes he can put his Game 1 struggles behind him.
The team has announced that Rick Porcello will get the start on Tuesday, if the Red Sox can stave off elimination with a Game 3 win on Monday night.
"That's the plan tomorrow, provided we get there," Boston manager John Farrell said in his pregame press conference on Monday.
With Game 3 rained out on Sunday, Porcello can now take Eduardo Rodriguez's spot in the rotation and start Game 4 on Tuesday on normal rest, rather than wait for his chance at redemption in a potential Game 5.
The AL Cy Young favorite, who won 22 games during the regular season, is looking to bounce back after a rough start in the first game of the series. Porcello lasted just 4.1 innings in his Game 1 start in Cleveland, surrendering five runs off six hits, including three homers. All three home runs, all solo shots, came in the third inning.
"Definitely exciting to get back out there," Porcello said Monday. "I don't think the first two games represent us as a ball club. I can't wait to get back out there and throw the ball like I'm capable of. Obviously, we have to get it done tonight."
The righty was stellar at Fenway Park during the regular season, going 13-1 with a 2.49 ERA while holding opposing hitters to a .241 average.