Red Sox: Garrett Whitlock contract extension is a major L for Yankees

The Boston Red Sox have signed reliever Garrett Whitlock to a contract extension after his standout season. Whitlock is a former Rule 5 pick off the Yankees roster.

Very rarely do you see such quick bragging rights come from the most storied rivalry in baseball, but Whitlock provided that for the Red Sox last season. In 2021, Whitlock pitched in 46 games, registering an 8-4 record with a 1.96 ERA and 1.105 WHIP. He was one of the most dependable relievers in Boston’s bullpen.

Given his recent success and age (he’s still just 25 years old), the Red Sox opted to extend Whitlock while they had the chance. On Sunday afternoon, they announced a four-year extension through the 2026 season, at least. The contract includes club options for the 2027 and 2028 campaigns, should Boston choose to use them.

Garrett Whitlock contract is win for Red Sox, loss for Yankees

In the *coughs* actual standings, the Yankees have won the first two games of the season over Boston.

However, in terms of the long game, the Red Sox certainly have the edge since last season. By knocking the Yankees out of the playoffs, and now extending a former Rule 5 draft pick off of New York’s roster, it’s been a rough go lately for the boys from the Bronx. Per the Red Sox press release, Whitlock’s numbers are incredibly impressive:

"“Whitlock became only the 10th Red Sox pitcher in the Live Ball Era (since 1920) to throw at least 70.0 innings and record an ERA below 2.00. Among the 30 rookies who threw at least 70.0 innings in 2021, Whitlock ranked first in ERA, second in WHIP, and third in opponent OPS (.631).”"

However, it’s a new season. Affordable signings and metaphorical victories can only go so far. Expect a hotly-contested race between these two teams in the months to come.