As Grapefruit League action has begun at JetBlue Park, the Boston Red Sox have reported a number of injuries to critical players. Boston has also given updates on the recovery progress of a few players with long-term injuries.

Lucas Giolito hopes to post a comeback season with the Red Sox after he underwent the internal brace procedure to repair his UCL last year. He, Kutter Crawford and Brayan Bello are behind the other pitchers in their workouts this spring.

However, Christopher Smith of MassLive issued a positive update on Giolito’s recovery. The eight-year MLB veteran is slated to throw his first live batting practice on Feb. 24. The righty still hopes to be ready for Opening Day despite his slow start in spring, and that may be possible on his current timeline, according to Smith.

Giolito’s health has become even more critical to Boston’s rotation after Crawford and Bello’s injuries. Gioito is ahead of Bello in his recovery, with Opening Day readiness still a possibility for both and unlikely for Crawford.

Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito slated for first live batting practice after undergoing internal brace procedure last year

Smith also reported that reliever Chris Murphy has begun throwing bullpens after undergoing Tommy John surgery last offseason. After he posted a 4.91 ERA with 49 strikeouts and 17 walks over 47.2 innings in 2023, the Red Sox hoped he’d be a valuable lefty presence in the bullpen last year.

Opening Day is likely out of the question for Murphy, who hopes to return to the big leagues at some point in 2025. Boston has not discussed a potential role with him, but the former starter thinks he’d be well suited to a bulk-relief spot.

Chris Murphy, Patrick Sandoval hope to pitch for Red Sox at some point in 2025

The Red Sox expect to have more starting depth in the second half of the season when new acquisition Patrick Sandoval is healthy. The former Angel underwent Tommy John surgery with an internal brace last June. There’s still a long way to go in his recovery, but the Red Sox hope he’ll be ready for game action by midseason.

Wilyer Abreu sidelined from Red Sox workouts with viral gastrointestinal illness

Red Sox pitchers aren’t the only ones who’ve been visited by the injury bug — or maybe the stomach bug. Wilyer Abreu hasn’t worked out with the Sox yet because he arrived at camp with a gastrointestinal virus.

According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the 2024 Gold Glover has had some “abnormal labs” as he’s being treated for the illness. Cotillo reports his labs are improving, but he can’t return to baseball activities until his screenings come back clear.

Boston doesn’t have a clear timeline for Abreu’s return, but it does not expect the illness to prevent him from starting the season on time.