Alex Cora names the Red Sox Opening Day starter
With Opening Day just two weeks away, Alex Cora has named his starter for game one of the 2021 MLB season. Eduardo Rodriguez, who missed 2020 after battling COVID-19 and myocarditis, will take the mound when the Red Sox host the Orioles on April 1 at Fenway Park.
Cora made the announcement when speaking to the media Wednesday afternoon, following Rodriguez’ third start of the spring. In five innings, the lefty threw 51 pitches holding the Twins to two hits and just one earned run, while striking out six. It was another in a line of strong starts for him so far in Spring Training. In three appearances, he’s allowed just three earned runs in 11.2 innings, with 14 strikeouts and no walks.
Rodriguez’ strong start to Spring Training is encouraging, given that he had to step away from baseball for medical reasons last season. There doesn’t appear to be much rust, as he looks to be picking up right where he left off in 2019 – when he finished sixth in AL Cy Young voting.
This will be Rodriguez’ first career Opening Day start. He’ll be the 56th different pitcher to start an Opening Day game for the Red Sox, and the sixth in the last seven seasons.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
