The seven-time All-Star lefty Chris Sale is so eager to return to the field from the injured list that he isn’t even picky about his role. Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Sale said that he would “for sure” be willing to be a reliever if the team sees it fit.
Sale is yet to play a game in 2022 as he deals with a right rib stress fracture he suffered in February. He started the season on the 60-day injured list and is slowly making his way back. The veteran already had one live session this week and is in line for another one. After that, he is expected to throw in the minors before returning to MLB action next month.
However, the Red Sox have been reportedly discussing a scenario in which they use Sale out of the bullpen. This would fast-track his return to the majors, and it appears that the 33-year-old wouldn’t mind this development.
“Nothing really matters other than getting back out there,” Sale, who has 241 career starts in MLB, said. “Hand me the ball, I’ll throw it until you take it. That’s where I’m at.”
Chris Sale didn’t play at all in 2020, undergoing a Tommy John surgery. He also missed the most of 2021 before making a successful return and starting nine games. Sale wrapped up the regular-season campaign with a 5–1 record while posting 3.16 ERA and 52 strikeouts.
