Tanner Houck's best season of his career with the Boston Red Sox as a rising starter included an All-Star appearance and a dominant surprise by twirling an impressive complete game shutout against the Cleveland Guardians.
Since the All-Star break, that success took a bit of a turn. Houck struggled since the break and only made one start in September before getting extended rest for two weeks. Like many young Red Sox starters, Houck blew past his previous career-high of innings pitched and that's shown for the rotation down the stretch.
Houck returned to the mound Wednesday for the Red Sox for the first time since Sept. 4. Houck tossed four innings of one-run ball against the Rays on a pitch count as Boston earned a 2-1 victory.
"It was really good," Houck told reporters, per NESN's postgame coverage. "I felt like the movement was really good. It was where it needs to be. Getting a lot more horizontal, as well as getting good depth on my pitches. I think the little bit of extra rest definitely propels me to finish this year strong."
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Houck credited several Red Sox staffers for their work in getting him back to the mound after not pitching for two weeks.
"It's all thanks to the coaching staff, front office, medical staff looking out for me," Houck said. "I'm the first person to admit that I will neglect my body to go out there and play, no matter how I feel or anything like that. They're looking out for me long-term. It's not just about right now."
With 10 games remaining in the season, Houck's return to the mound should last through the end of the season as he looks to finish the year with momentum for the Red Sox.
"For me, that's the plan," Houck said. "Come in tomorrow, see how I rebound after today. Ultimately, I plan on making the rest of my starts the rest of the year every five days. Like I said, finish this year strong."
