Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez (57) throws during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Red Sox being cautious with Eduardo Rodriguez, won't rush his return

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/29/21

Boston Red Sox pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez was scratched from his Opening Day start due to what Alex Cora described as "dead arm."

On Monday, Cora said that he won't be rushing Rodriguez to return to the rotation, indicating that he likely won't pitch this weekend against the Baltimore Orioles.

Cora on Eduardo Rodriguez: "We're not going to rush him." Says bullpen today and how he reacts will determine immediate course.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) March 29, 2021

Rodriguez is also working his way back from COVID-19-related myocarditis, which caused him to miss the entire 2020 campaign.

The 27-year-old has started four games during spring training, going 3-0 with a 2.63 ERA, 0.951 WHIP and 15 strikeouts in 13.2 innings.

Nathan Eovaldi will get the start on Opening Day for the second consecutive season and the remainder of the rotation has yet to be finalized. It could include some combination of Martin Perez, Nick Pivetta and Matt Andriese.

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