Red Sox pitcher Garrett Whitlock spent the final month of the 2026 season pitching with a fractured right tibia, which was diagnosed after Boston's elimination from the postseason by the Yankees, according to the Boston Globe. The 30-year-old right-hander experienced leg discomfort throughout September but continued to pitch during the Red Sox's playoff push, contributing to their American League wild-card series appearance against the Yankees. Following Boston's postseason exit, further evaluation revealed the fracture that had not been previously diagnosed.
Despite the injury, Whitlock had a strong final month of the regular season, making eight appearances in September and allowing zero earned runs over 7 ⅓ innings while recording nine strikeouts and two walks. He permitted only six hits during that period, aiding Boston in securing a postseason berth. However, in the playoffs, Whitlock struggled, allowing three earned runs in just 1 ⅓ innings, resulting in a 20.25 ERA.
The Red Sox were aware of his discomfort and worked with Whitlock to manage the pain, although the fracture itself remained undetected. Fortunately, the fracture is not expected to require surgery, as reported by the Globe. Whitlock will spend four to six weeks in a walking boot for healing, with the expectation of being healthy enough for spring training next year, assuming the season starts on time amid rumors of a potential lockout.
Whitlock concluded the regular season with a career-best 1.72 ERA across 54 appearances, striking out 59 batters and walking just nine over 52 ⅓ innings. He also recorded a career-high 26 holds while serving as one of Boston's primary setup options ahead of closer Aroldis Chapman. This injury adds to a season in which Whitlock also spent time on the injured list due to a left knee injury and later elbow inflammation. Whitlock remains under team control with club options for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.