The Boston Red Sox were unable to complete a series sweep Wednesday at Fenway Park, thanks largely to a disastrous second inning from reliever Jordan Hicks. In an 8-1 loss to the Cleveland Guardians, Hicks’ struggles highlighted ongoing concerns with Boston’s bullpen at a crucial point in the 2025 MLB season.
Hicks entered the game in the top of the first inning with two outs, replacing Brennan Bernardino in a planned bullpen strategy after the Red Sox had won the first two games against Cleveland. With the Guardians leading 1-0 and a runner on first, Hicks struck out Jhonkensy Noel on just three pitches to end the inning, giving fans hope.
However, the second inning quickly unraveled. The 28-year-old reliever surrendered a leadoff double, followed by a two-run home run and two additional hits before being pulled from the game, ultimately taking responsibility for four earned runs as the bullpen faltered.
After the game, manager Alex Cora spoke candidly about both Hicks’ performance and the bullpen’s struggles. As reported by Boston Herald’s Mac Cerullo on X (formerly Twitter), Cora acknowledged the challenges but maintained faith in his right-hander.
“We’ve got to figure him out. We need him. That’s the bottom line. Because we’ve got Whitlock as a setup man, we need righties in the bullpen to do their job. We trust the ability but we have to execute,” Cora said.
Cora’s remarks emphasize Hicks’ value to the team despite his recent inconsistency. Acquired in the blockbuster trade that sent Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants, Hicks was expected to stabilize the middle innings. Yet through 21 appearances in 2025, he has struggled, posting an 8.20 ERA and a 1.98 WHIP, giving up 17 earned runs with just two saves. Though his arm strength is undeniable, erratic performances have put his role under intense scrutiny amid Boston’s playoff push.
With only 21 games left in the regular season, every outing carries weight. Cora’s continued support suggests he believes Hicks can rebound, but the reliever must deliver consistently. Currently tied for the second Wild Card spot, the Red Sox have a day off Thursday before traveling west to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks in a weekend series that could have significant postseason implications.
