Jordan Hicks could become the first member of the Rafael Devers trade to play for the Boston Red Sox.
On June 15, the Red Sox sent Devers to the San Francisco Giants for a four-player return. Hicks was sidelined with right toe inflammation at the time of the blockbuster, but the hard-throwing pitcher has made two rehab appearances at Triple-A Worcester while preparing to join Boston’s bullpen.
The Red Sox may activate Hicks for their upcoming three-game home series against the Cincinnati Reds from Monday to Wednesday, per MLB.com’s Ian Browne and WBZ TV’s Dan Roche.
Hicks spoke publicly for the first time since the trade on Sunday. The 28-year-old revealed that the Red Sox were his second choice before he signed a four-year, $44 million contract with the Giants in 2024.
Like most people, Hicks didn’t see the trade coming.
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“I was a little bit surprised,” Hicks said. “I didn’t even know you could get traded on the IL. But besides that, I was just really excited to hear that it was a team that was pursuing me in free agency and that I get to be a part of a young squad. I’m just really excited to play (for) this historic organization.”
Hicks consistently fired a triple-digits fastball as a St. Louis Cardinals reliever before San Francisco moved him to its rotation. He posted a 6.55 ERA in nine starts this season, briefly shifting back to the bullpen until landing on the IL.
The Red Sox plan to utilize Hicks as a reliever in hopes of unlocking the flame-thrower who registered a 3.29 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 65 2/3 innings in 2023. Courtesy of MassLive’s Sean McAdam, the recent acquisition is embracing the change.
“Kind of got to try out the starting thing; would have liked a longer leash, but at the same time, I’m excited to help the team any way I can,” Hicks said. “I know what I can bring to the table — I just needed an adjustment period … I feel like I’m coming back to the bullpen in good shape.”
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