With the mid-summer classic quickly approaching, the all-star selections were released on Sunday evening. In the mix for American League pitchers was former Missouri star, Tanner Hock. The 6-foot-5, hard throwing righty was selected for his first career all-star game.
That's All-Star pitcher Tanner Houck, to you! pic.twitter.com/CrbUoXE4jp
— Red Sox (@RedSox) July 7, 2024
Houck is putting together a break out campaign for the red sox, already eclipsing his previous career high in innings this year. In his fifth season in the league, Houck has tossed 111.0 innings thus far, which should alleviate some concern for the Boston Red Sox going into the second half.
But Houck has been great in 2024, posting a 2.68 ERA, while striking out 106 batters. This is more of what we saw during Houck's time at the University of Missouri, where he was dominant.
Houck pitched to the tune of a 3.19 ERA across 406.0 innings pitched while playing for Missouri. He was one of the top pitching prospects in the draft, ultimately being selected 24th overall by the Boston Red Sox. At the age of 28, Houck has come on to the scene and is having a break-out season in Boston. He has put together a couple of solid seasons for the club, but nothing of this magnitude.
The Missouri Tigers have put together quite the run with major league talent in recent years. Some of these former Tigers include Max Scherzer, Pete Fairbanks, Kyle Gibson, and Rob Zastryzny. It appears something must be in the water for the pitching staff at Missouri.
What's next for Tanner Houck?
With Houck reaching uncharted territory in innings pitched this year it will be interesting to see how the Red Sox utilize him. They have to semi-cautious, as they'll want Houck pitching down the stretch in September. In the meantime, hopefully we will get see an appearance from Houck in the all-star game next week!