Reinforcements Reportedly On Way As Red Sox Look To Dig Themselves Out Of Hole

The Boston Red Sox should have one of their best relief pitchers back in the bullpen sooner rather than later.

Boston's bullpen certainly has seen improvement this season, but the club has dealt with a wide range of injuries and its depth has been tested in a major way. One player who the Red Sox certainly miss is reliever John Schreiber but the club may have him back shortly, according to The Athletic's Chad Jennings.

"Having already missed a month and a half with a strained teres major muscle in his upper back, Schreiber threw live batting practice Tuesday morning and should start a rehab assignment this weekend," Jennings said. "The Red Sox are hopeful he can pitch twice between the All-Star break and return soon after. 'He's feeling great' (Red Sox manager Alex Cora) said. 'This is moving fairly fast.'"

Schreiber has been one of the Red Sox's best relievers over the last two seasons but hasn't touched a big league mound since May 15. The 29-year-old pitched to a 2.12 ERA across 18 appearances before going down with injury in May. Boston has been forced to make many minor league call-ups to stay afloat this season. The Red Sox currently are 43-43 and are within range of competing for a Wild Card spot and Schreiber's return to the hill only could help. 

Once Schreiber returns to the hill it will give the Red Sox another dependable arm to help the team navigate late innings. The Red Sox have dealt with a wide range of injuries to their starting rotation -- including most recently Garrett Whitlock -- so the return of Schreiber will at least give the club another bullpen option as its depth continues to be tested. 

Boston should start to get healthier very shortly. Hopefully, newfound health can help the club string together a few wins and make up some ground in the postseason standings.