BOSTON — As the Boston Red Sox prepare for the upcoming 2024 season, they were initially in pursuit of hard-throwing right-hander Jordan Hicks, who ultimately signed with the San Francisco Giants for four years and $44 million. Fast forward 18 months, and Hicks finds himself in the Red Sox dugout just two weeks after being traded as part of the Rafael Devers deal, bringing an ironic twist to his career path.
Hicks expressed his excitement about joining the Red Sox, acknowledging that they had previously shown significant interest in him. “I just remember they came after me pretty hard,” he said. “So I’m just excited to be here and feel wanted.”
At 28 years old, Hicks has been on the injury list since early June due to toe inflammation, but after successfully completing two rehab outings with Triple-A Worcester, he is anticipating his activation ahead of the Red Sox’s three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds.
The trade on June 15 took Hicks by surprise, particularly since he was on the injured list at the time. However, joining a team that had actively pursued him during free agency and is known for its rich history, was a welcome development. “I’m really excited to play for this historic organization,” he remarked.
Originally a third-round draft pick in 2015, Hicks spent five years with the St. Louis Cardinals before a trade to the Toronto Blue Jays and a subsequent signing with the Giants in 2024. In a shift from his role primarily as a reliever in St. Louis — where he recorded 26 saves — the Giants experimented with him as a starter. Unfortunately, after struggling with a 6.55 ERA across nine starts, he was reassigned to the bullpen before his injury.
Hicks highlighted the pitching infrastructure in Boston, which he feels has been instrumental in helping him adjust. They are focusing on metrics and techniques that can enhance his performance, such as reintegrating a harder slider to complement his fastball.
In 2023, Hicks posted an impressive 3.29 ERA in 65 appearances, with notable performances including 12 saves and 81 strikeouts over 65 ⅔ innings. He is known for his ability to deliver pitches consistently over 100 mph, positioning him favorably among major league pitchers.
The Red Sox view Hicks as a crucial addition to their bullpen, especially with fellow pitcher Justin Slaten moving to the 60-day injured list. Manager Alex Cora emphasized that Hicks’ presence will bolster the bullpen, which has shown strength despite some recent road losses.
Hicks concludes that he is eager to transition into a high-leverage relief role, confident in what he can bring to the table: “I’m excited to help the team anyway I can.”
Overall, Hicks’ return to form and his potential contributions to the Red Sox could signal a positive development for the team as they seek to fortify their pitching lineup.