James Atama
WORCESTER — Hard-throwing prospect Luis Guerrero spent spring training vying for a spot on the Red Sox’ Opening Day roster while also working on a new pitch. Though he was ultimately optioned to Triple-A Worcester, he is expected to be among the first relievers called up when Boston needs bullpen depth.
Guerrero added a cutter to his repertoire during camp, complementing his four-seam fastball and changeup, which he plans to use against left-handed hitters. “It’s something to throw lefties off, especially to change things up from my changeup,” Guerrero explained through translator and defensive coach Iggy Suarez on Friday at Polar Park, just before Worcester’s regular season opener.
Early in spring training, Guerrero seemed poised to secure a roster spot. The 24-year-old was impressive, hitting the high-90s with his fastball and tallying only one hit and one walk while striking out six in three scoreless innings across his initial Grapefruit League outings. However, he faced control issues later in camp, walking eight batters and yielding six runs over his last four appearances (2⅔ innings), which ultimately led to his optioning to Worcester on March 19.
“I feel it was a good spring training,” Guerrero reflected. “I understand there are bumps along the way. Trying a new pitch and getting comfortable with it is all part of the journey.”
Red Sox manager Alex Cora remarked on their conversation, noting Guerrero’s positive attitude. “The good thing about him is he didn’t get upset. He said, ‘I’ve got to keep working. I will be back.’”
Motivated to return to the majors, Guerrero had a solid debut last September, not allowing an earned run in 10 innings. He restricted opponents to just one unearned run and six hits, striking out nine across nine appearances while demonstrating improved control after previous struggles in the minors.
“It’s part of the process,” Guerrero said. “Ultimately, the decisions are out of my control, but I plan to make the most of my time here and make adjustments to get back to the big leagues.”
This was Guerrero’s second big league spring training, and the first time he felt he had a real chance to make the Opening Day roster. Cora emphasized that young players often deal with nerves during this critical time, leading them to overexert themselves. “It’s our job to help them slow down and recognize they will be fine.”
Guerrero noted that having already gone through one big league camp helped ease his nerves this spring. “It’s all part of the process — just trying to stay focused and grounded as I navigate through this.”
