Garrett Whitlock had only thrown 54 pitches when the Red Sox announced that Joely Rodriguez would be taking over for the fifth inning Tuesday night.

Whitlock allowed two earned runs on three hits, issued one walk, and struck out a batter in his four innings against the Cleveland Guardians. That the right-hander breezed through most of the outing made the early pull all the more concerning.

This was Whitlock’s first career start against the Guardians and fourth start of the year. He owns a 1.96 ERA on the season.

<em>This story will be updated.&nbsp;</em>

Red Sox starter Garrett Whitlock didn’t return to the mound for the fifth inning Tuesday night despite only throwing 54 pitches in his start against the Cleveland Guardians.{ai:summary}<p>Whitlock's solid start was cut short prematurely against the Guardians, stirring questions about the decision. Rodriguez entered early on. Concerns arise over the early pull of the pitcher. #sports</p>

Garrett Whitlock leaves Red Sox start after 54 pitches

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