Although Red Sox starting pitcher Joe Kelly (biceps) made it through his bullpen session Sunday unscathed, manager John Farrell indicated Monday the team could open the season with eight relievers since they won't need a fifth starter until April 15, per WEEI.com.
“I don’t anticipate him not being ready at this point, but we’re just keeping the other scenario as an option,” Farrell said. “I think that group has probably narrowed some, the guys in competition (for a spot in the bullpen). We’ll have more information to factor in by Saturday, which would include Kelly’s next outing. There’s one scenario that could have us break with eight relievers. And the first time we would need a fifth starter would be on the 15th. That’s all being factored into this as well.”