It was quite a start for Chris Murphy’s big league career
by Greg Dudek 9 hours ago
To say that Boston Red Sox pitcher Chris Murphy has had a seamless transition into the big leagues would be an understatement.
Murphy, recalled by the Red Sox ahead of their three-game streak with the White Sox in Chicago, continued to shine in the majors on Saturday despite Boston suffering a 5-4 walk-off loss in guaranteed rate field.
The left-handed reliever didn’t play a role in the decision, but it certainly did its part in giving the Red Sox a chance to rally early in the ninth inning. Murphy allowed just one hit and hit three in two scoreless innings in relief, something he has done regularly since making his Major League Baseball debut.
In fact, Murphy made MLB history by repeating the results on Saturday. According to JP Long, senior manager of media relations and baseball information for the Red Sox, Murphy became the first pitcher pitching more than two scoreless innings in each of his first three appearances in the major leagues.
Murphy didn’t concede a single run in eight innings with the Red Sox while recording just one walk and 11 strikeouts. He also has a WHIP of 1.63 and a batting average of .138.
The numbers are staggering, especially as Murphy struggled as a starter at Triple-A Worcester before turning into a substitute. The 25-year-old went 1-3 with the WooSox in nine starts this season with the WooSox with an inflated ERA of 8.35.
But the move to the bullpen changed everything for Murphy. On his MLB debut away against the Cleveland Guardians, he scored two and batted five in 3 1/3 innings. Murphy was sent back to Worcester a few days later, but since the Red Sox needed a 27th man for their double-header against the Yankees last week, they turned to Murphy and he delivered. This time he allowed just one hit in 2 2/3 innings and had three strikeouts in the 6-2 win.
Murphy’s consistent and excellent performances come as the Red Sox grapple with injuries across the pitching team, and more performances like the ones he’s already had should give Murphy more chances in the big leagues.
Thumbnail photo via Jamie Sabau/USA TODAY Sports Images