So far this season, the Worcester Woosox have been watched closely. The Boston Red Sox Triple affiliate has some of the Red Sox’s top prospects inching closer to the majors. One player, however, who has stood out this season is Kaleb Ort. The right-hander was selected by Boston in the 2020 Rule Five Draft and has been nearly unhittable. As the Red Sox pitching has struggled of late, Ort’s performance one level away has been hard to ignore.
In 15 appearances this year, Ort has posted a 0.56 ERA. The 29-year-old has also struck out 22 batters while only walking eight. After finishing 2019 with a 3.40 ERA, Ort is making a good impression with his new team. As Worcester has gotten off to a 23-13 start, Ort has only allowed runs in three outings this season. Through the first three months of the season, he has been one of the Woosox’s best relievers.
Additionally, the Aquinas college product has not allowed a home run so far this season. The Michigan native is holding opponents to a .172 average while striking out more than a batter an inning. Over his last three appearances, Ort has been lights out and only allowed one hit. Although the 2020 minor league season was canceled, Ort is making up for the lost time.
Due to his recent play, Ort has become a more popular name. He has shown excellent control this year, and his emergence is coming when needed the most. Over Boston’s last nine games, their starters have posted a 9.23 ERA. In that span, they have allowed 40 earned runs. As a result, the bullpen has been tested as Boston’s starters have struggled to pitch deep into games.
What are the Chances Ort is Promoted to the Majors?
As the Red Sox look for a spark, Ort could be part of the solution. He has only allowed more than one hit in two appearances and has not blown a save opportunity this year. He also has the lowest ERA of any WooSox reliever. Although he is not a top prospect, his recent pitching has been one of Worcester’s storylines. If the Red Sox struggles continue, Ort could soon find himself in the majors. Although he allowed a season-high two runs in his last appearance, Ort had only allowed one run in his previous 15 innings of work. As Boston looks to reclaim first in the division, Ort’s first shot at the majors may not be far away.
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