The Boston Red Sox are facing some tough news regarding their ace pitcher, Garrett Crochet, whose return to the mound is looking less certain as he recovers from a left shoulder injury. While the team has seen some positive developments—like Sonny Gray rejoining the rotation earlier this week and Ranger Suárez expected back for the upcoming series against the Philadelphia Phillies—Crochet's situation remains a concern.

Crochet was placed on the 15-day injured list on April 29 with left shoulder inflammation. Although he's been making progress, interim manager Chad Tracy revealed that the 26-year-old hasn't yet thrown off a mound. According to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe, Crochet has been limited to playing catch, with throws extending past 100 feet, but no mound work has taken place. This suggests his return is not imminent.

Initially, Crochet was hopeful he'd be activated right after the minimum required time off. While it's encouraging that there's no structural damage in his shoulder, the fact that he hasn't progressed to mound pitching is a troubling sign. The two-time All-Star has had a rocky start to this season, posting a 6.30 ERA with 37 strikeouts over six starts. But it's worth remembering that just last year, he led the MLB with an incredible 255 strikeouts and came close to winning the American League Cy Young Award.

For now, the Red Sox will need to rely on other arms, like Payton Tolle, to support the rotation while Crochet works his way back. When he does return, fans are hoping the ace can rediscover the dominant form that made him one of the league's most feared pitchers. In the meantime, the team will be keeping a close eye on his recovery, eager for the day he steps back on the mound.