Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
7h ago

Hunter Dobbins Exits Early With Knee Pain in Return Start

The early setback casts doubt on his rotation spot alongside Boston’s growing dependence on call-ups, bullpen arms and rehab returns

Image
Image
Jul 11, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Hunter Dobbins (73) throws a pitch against the Tampa Bay Rays in the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Hunter Dobbins was activated from the injured list for Friday’s start but left after 27 pitches in the second inning with right knee pain
  • Jorge Alcala relieved Dobbins with two outs in the second, underscoring the bullpen’s key role in covering rotation gaps
  • Alex Bregman also made his season return in the same game following a rehab assignment for a quad strain
  • Dobbins had been shut down on June 20 with a right elbow strain and entered Friday’s start carrying a 4.10 ERA over 11 starts
  • Manager Alex Cora said the team will continue to lean on call-ups, rehab progress and bullpen depth to sustain the rotation through its injury challenges