Triple-A Pitching Prospect Could Help Solve Boston Red Sox Bullpen Woes

The Boston Red Sox suffered a stinging loss at the hands of the Houston Astros on Wednesday, mostly due to multiple late-game collapses by the bullpen. The concerning trend of unreliability from the Boston relievers has cost the team a sizeable amount of wins in a tight playoff race and the outcome of every game could hold significant meaning.

The crushing regression of right-handed reliever Zack Kelly, left-handed reliever Brennan Bernardino and up-and-down performances of left-handed reliever Cam Booser have handcuffed manager Alex Cora in the decisions he can make.

In the ever-expanding search for exciting, healthy arms that has included the arrival of numerous reclamation projects and waiver claims, Triple-A Worcester could provide the best option available. The 27-year-old southpaw has become an intriguing presence on the Worcester staff and is gaining helium among the prospect fanbase.

His surface numbers don't scream "MLB ready" but a large part of his midseason struggles were a direct result of a lingering leg injury. He lit up Double-A Portland in his brief early-season stint before his promotion and has found similar success since being transitioned into the bullpen.

A mid-to-high 90s fastball and a combination of a firm slider and changeup have overpowered hitters in his short-inning outings. Red Sox top catching prospect Kyle Teel caught Penrod for an inning and described both his fastball and changeup as "elite".

Since returning from injury, Penrod's outings have steadily gotten shorter and more impressive as he works into a high-leverage role. The Red Sox likely need to shake up the bullpen if they want to remain in the playoff race and buying in on Penrod's upward trend could pay dividends.