Alex Cora Confirms Garrett Whitlock’s Spot on Red Sox Opening Day Roster

Garrett Whitlock’s 2024 season was cut short by an internal brace procedure on May 30, a surgery that appeared poised to delay his start to the 2025 campaign. However, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has delivered an optimistic update, telling MLB.com’s Ian Browne and other reporters that Whitlock is “100 percent” set to join the team’s Opening Day roster. This surprising news highlights Whitlock’s ahead-of-schedule recovery, defying initial expectations and positioning the right-hander for a timely return to the mound.

Even though Whitlock has yet to face live batters this spring, his progress has been steady and deliberate, guided by a unique rehab plan outlined by The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey. The Red Sox employed a “deloading” strategy this offseason, alternating intense throwing weeks with recovery periods, and Whitlock has already completed several bullpen sessions. With this phase behind him, he’s slated to throw a live batting practice session tomorrow, marking a key step toward a standard Spring Training buildup. Cora’s confidence signals a promising outlook for Whitlock’s role in Boston’s 2025 plans.