Garrett Whitlock continues to be a godsend for the Boston Red Sox pitching staff.
The right-hander, who's been the team's most reliable bullpen arm since joining the team last season, stepped up in a new role Saturday night. He made the first MLB start of his career against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, and he was brilliant.
Tomase: Punchless Red Sox need offense to start doing its part
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SIGN UP HERE Whitlock was perfect through the first three innings with six strikeouts. The 25-year-old's only hit allowed in the game was a Brandon Lowe double in the fourth.
Whitlock finished with seven strikeouts, no walks and no runs allowed in four innings pitched. He was extremely efficient with only 48 pitches thrown (33 for strikes).
Unfortunately for Whitlock and the Red Sox, the offense didn't hold up its end of the bargain. Boston was kept out of the hit column throughout Whitlock's start.
It's unclear how much the Red Sox will use Whitlock in a starting role going forward. The second-year star has proven too useful in the bullpen to be used full-time in the rotation. Still, he made it clear Saturday he's capable of taking on any role when called upon.