Do the Red Sox need Cole Hamels? Well, that's up for debate. But it certainly doesn't hurt to dip their toes in the water when it comes to checking in o n the veteran lefty.
The Red Sox were one of 20 teams in attendance for Hamels' showcase in Texas Friday, with the 37-year-old throwing two 30-pitch sessions with a five minute break in between.
According to MLB.com, Hamels' fastball velocity averaged 88.5 mph, topping out at 90 mph. The report stated that the southpaw -- who also displayed each of his off speed pitches -- had good movement but somewhat lacked command.
Hamels pitched just 3 1/3 innings last year with the Braves after signing a one-year, $18 million deal, suffering from triceps and shoulder issues.
The pitcher previously expressed a willingness to pitch with the Red Sox when there was discussion regarding waiving his no-trade clause.
The four-time All-Star pitched as many as 190 2/3 innings as recently as 2018, finishing with a combined ERA of 3.78 for the Rangers and Cubs. He posted an impressive 2.36 ERA in 12 starts down the stretch that season for Chicago.