A pair of Red Sox youngsters are making their way back to the big league club slowly but surely.
Red Sox manager John Farrell told reporters before Tuesday’s game that catcher Christian Vazquez will start in the PawSox’ Opening Day game at catcher, where he’ll catch a full nine innings and then do the same the following game on Friday.
Vazquez had Tommy John surgery last April days before Opening Day. He’s been placed on the 15-Day disabled list by the Sox as he continues to make progress in his recovery. Vazquez is highly regarded among Red Sox pitchers, but with Blake Swihart and Ryan Hanigan behind the plate, there’s no sense in rushing him back.
And speaking of Red Sox pitchers, Eduardo Rodriguez will is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday and a simulated game on Sunday.
Rodriguez went down with a right knee injury in spring training and missed all of Grapefruit League play. He’ll have to make several rehab starts before the Sox activate him.