Justin Slaten has proven to be exceptionally valuable, hasn’t he?
When the Red Sox acquired the 26-year-old from the New York Mets last December, they likely didn’t anticipate him becoming such a key bullpen asset so quickly. Yet, that’s precisely what he’s become.
In fact, Slaten has been more than just a reliable player; he’s been a major asset.
Take Friday as a prime example. After Brennan Bernardino allowed a walk, a single, and a three-run homer in the eighth inning, the Red Sox turned to Slaten to protect a one-run lead. With just five pitches, he secured two outs, helping the team to an extra-innings victory at Comerica Park.
“He’s been okay,” Red Sox reliever Chris Martin joked on Friday, according to MassLive. “No, he’s unbelievable, man. Yeah. I think the goal for everyone in the bullpen is to attack the zone. Of course, there will be good and bad outings, but you’ve just got to roll with the punches, and he’s been doing a great job of that.”
Slaten has certainly faced his share of challenges during his rookie season, including a significant stint on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation. Despite this setback, he has bounced back effectively, returning with two consecutive scoreless appearances after just one rehab outing.
“He’s huge,” said Boston manager Alex Cora, according to MassLive. “We talk about getting healthy, and having Chris (Martin) and Slaten back in the bullpen is a big boost for us. Today, we needed to rely on Slaten in that situation. We had to stop the rally, and he did an amazing job. Chris pitched well in the 10th inning. We’re in a better place with our bullpen now compared to where we were 15 days ago.”
The Red Sox are certainly in a better position now than they were at the trade deadline. With Slaten and Martin sidelined, Boston had to acquire two bullpen arms—Lucas Sims and Luis Garcia—to cover the gap.
Sims and Garcia’s tenure with the team was short-lived and problematic, as both ended up on the injured list themselves. Therefore, Slaten’s return is indeed as significant as it’s been made out to be, especially with Boston making strides in the American League wild-card race and gaining ground.
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