Red Sox Flame Throwing Pitching Prospect Likely To Make MLB Debut This Season

He missed most of last season.

Boston Red Sox pitching prospect Bryan Mata is getting closer to making his Major League debut, according to manager Alex Cora.

Mata, who underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2021, missed most of the 2022 season before returning to action in June.

Despite this, he was able to make it to Triple-A Worcester by the end of the year, where he showed impressive form. The 23-year-old consistently hit 100 mph with his fastball and posted a 3.47 ERA with 30 strikeouts in 23.1 innings over five starts for the WooSox.

He was impressive at Double-A Portland before that, however, recording a 1.85 ERA over 48.2 innings of work.

Alex Cora on the outlook for Bryan Mata:

“At one point, (Mata) is gonna be part of this and he’s gonna help us to win a few games.”

Mentioned Mata alongside Bello, Whitlock, and Houck. Goes to show the potential they see in him. pic.twitter.com/vxyzVHsuPi

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) February 22, 2023

Mata's strong performances have made him the top pitching prospect in Boston's system, and Cora believes that he could make his Major League debut by the end of the 2023 season.

However, there is some uncertainty over whether he will ultimately be a starter or a reliever.

Mata has struggled with command throughout his minor league career, posting a career 4.3 BB/9, and a 5.8 BB/9 in 2022. Nonetheless, Cora is optimistic about Mata's potential, saying that "the ability is there," and that he will be a valuable addition to the Red Sox team when he does make his debut.

Mata will have a chance to showcase his skills in Friday's exhibition against Northeastern University, where he is set to come out of the bullpen.

Some Bryan Mata footage for the timeline. pic.twitter.com/OytgpRFQWy

— Jamie Gatlin (@JamieGatlin17) February 17, 2023

The Red Sox have a number of promising young pitchers in their system, including Kutter Crawford, Josh Winckowski, Brandon Walter, and Chris Murphy, and Mata will likely be a part of their rotation in Worcester as the season progresses.

Regardless of his role, Mata will be looking to improve his command and make a strong impression on the Red Sox coaching staff in his bid to make his Major League debut. Photo Credit:  Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports