2022 Red Sox Predictions: Pitching Stats

We began our 2022 prediction polls yesterday by taking a look at the lineup.

67% said Xander Bogaerts will hit for the highest average on the team, while 82% said Rafael Devers will lead the team in home runs and an additional 50% said Raffy will drive in the most runs.

Now, it's time to predict how the pitchers will fare this season. Both the rotation and the bullpen have plenty of question marks heading into the new year, with Boston hoping that a wealth of mediocre depth can overcome a lack of top-line talent. At least to begin the season.

Chris Sale was moved to the 60-day IL yesterday, a move that the lefty seemed disappointed with, saying, "I definitely thought I was going to be ready quicker than that." What it means is that we won't see Boston's $30-million dollar man until June. Should Sale stay healthy from the time he returns through the end of the season, that will likely limit him to 20 starts at most.

James Paxton is also on the horizon as a mid-year addition, with the lefty working his way back from Tommy John surgery. He's still a ways away, though, and likely won't join the rotation until mid-July or August.

The Sox will be banking on the likes of Tanner Houck, Michael Wacha and Rich Hill to hold down the fort until Sale and Paxton can make their returns.

With that in mind, who do you think will be doing the heavy lifting on the mound this season?