The Boston Red Sox bullpen is about to get a serious boost. Despite the team's early-season struggles, the relief corps has been a bright spot—anchored by flamethrower Aroldis Chapman, they boast a stellar 3.47 ERA, fourth-best in the majors. And now, they're set to add another key piece: 28-year-old setup man Justin Slaten is nearing his return from the 15-day injured list.

Slaten has been sidelined since April 8 with a right oblique strain, but he's been putting in the work. After completing two rehab starts, many expected him back sooner. However, the Red Sox surprised fans by recalling long reliever Jack Anderson on Thursday, opting for depth over an immediate activation. But interim manager Chad Tracy put those questions to rest ahead of Friday's matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays.

"I think you'll see Slaten this weekend at some point active," Tracy told reporters, via MassLive's Christopher Smith. "Just with him throwing the outings in Worcester and then knowing that we're not gonna have him go like Wednesday, Friday, Sunday. Needing Jack with the length today was really important to make sure that we're covered in our bullpen. But in some capacity, we'll probably have Slaten back this weekend. We knew like he's not going to throw twice this weekend. So we'll get him in there."

Slaten has been lights out in limited action this season, allowing just one unearned run over four appearances. The three-year veteran has been a reliable arm for Boston over the past few seasons, and his return couldn't come at a better time. With his ability to handle high-leverage situations, he'll slot right back into a bullpen that's already clicking—giving the Red Sox even more firepower late in games.

For a team looking to turn things around, getting Slaten back is a major win. Keep an eye on this weekend's series against the Rays—you might just see him back on the mound, ready to lock things down.