March 15, 2013 at 8:50 PM
De La Rosa, Vazquez, Webster optioned
Three of the Red Sox most impressive spring training performers were cut from big league camp Friday following the team's split-squad tie against the Baltimore Orioles in Sarasota. Right-handed pitchers Allen Webster and Rubby De La Rosa were optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket, while catcher Christian Vazquez (pictured) was optioned to Double-A Portland.
Webster leads all Red Sox pitchers with 14 strikeouts in 11 spring innings pitched, leading some to argue he's been the best pitcher in camp. However, what was perhaps most impressive about the 23-year-old was his control, as he surrendered only one walk this spring on his way to a 1.63 ERA.
De La Rosa's performance was more inconsistent. The 24-year-old Dominican allowed seven earned runs in six and two-thirds innings pitched, good enough for a 9.45 ERA. Although his numbers weren't strong, De La Rosa impressed with his velocity early in camp by touching 100 mph multiple times in his first outing.
Vazquez opened eyes with his arm strength behind the plate, throwing out all four attempted base stealers. The 22-year-old, who amassed three hits, including one double, in 15 at-bats, also picked off a runner at third base.
Following the cuts, the Red Sox have 48 players in major league camp.
Photo Credits: Christian Vazquez by Kelly O'Connor