The Boston Red Sox needed some extra depth in the starting rotation and 6'6'' starting pitcher Jake Bennett helped in that department.
He came up to help the big league club when Garrett Crochet was placed on the Injured List. Bennett made two starts for the Red Sox, including on Thursday night against the Tampa Bay Rays. After the second big league start of his career on Thursday, Boston optioned him down to Triple-A Worcester, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe.
"The Red Sox optioned Jake Bennett to Triple-A Worcester after the game. TBD whether that is for Justin Slaten to return from the IL tomorrow or a call-up of someone else," Healey wrote.
Slaten is the guy to watch here. Boston's bullpen could use a boost and Slaten has been down in the minors on a rehab assignment.
Bennett was electric in his first start for Boston. On May 1, Bennett pitched five innings against the Houston Astros and allowed one earned run while striking out three batters. His start on Thursday night wasn't as smooth. Bennett got the ball against the red-hot Rays and allowed four earned runs across 5 1/3 innings pitched. He struck out just one batter while walking two. He helped when Boston needed him. Hopefully, this is a sign that Ranger Suárez is alright and Crochet isn't far behind.
It wasn't Boston's night on Thursday, but hopefully Slaten will be with the club on Friday.