UPDATE: The Boston Red Sox have just announced a major roster shakeup as they prepare for a crucial four-game series against the New York Yankees, starting Thursday at Yankee Stadium. The team confirmed that reliever Isaiah Campbell has been optioned to Triple-A Worcester, making room for rookie righty Richard Fitts, who will join the bullpen for the series opener.
This move signals a significant re-evaluation of the Red Sox pitching staff as they approach the final stretch of the season. Fitts, who has started all 17 games he pitched this year across three levels, will be active on Thursday, bringing his high-octane fastball, which has averaged 95.7 mph in the majors this season, to a relief role for the first time in his career.
In a developing situation, sources indicate that the Red Sox are also contemplating the future of veteran pitcher Walker Buehler, who is currently scheduled to pitch next on Monday against Baltimore. Buehler’s recent performance, marked by a troubling 4+ inning outing with 4 walks in Tuesday’s loss, has prompted discussions about whether to maintain his spot in the rotation. Fitts is among the candidates to potentially fill Buehler’s role if a change is made.
Fitts was initially set to start for the WooSox on Thursday night before the Red Sox opted to bring him up. Despite his struggles in his last three starts, where he recorded a 5.54 ERA in 13 innings, the team believes his skill set could thrive in shorter relief appearances.
The Red Sox are also closely monitoring the return of setup pitcher Justin Slaten, who is currently in the middle of a rehab assignment after missing nearly three months with a shoulder issue. Slaten made his first rehab appearance on Tuesday, striking out three batters on just 15 pitches. The team plans to be cautious with his return, ensuring he has adequate time to regain form before joining the active roster.
In a move that has raised eyebrows, Campbell, who has a 7.04 ERA over 7.2 innings in his six MLB outings this season, was chosen to be sent down over other options like Zack Kelly and Cooper Criswell, both of whom have performed well recently. Campbell’s final outing included allowing three runs on four hits during a challenging ninth inning on Saturday, contributing to the team’s loss the following day.
As the Red Sox initiate this roster shakeup, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the team’s performance as they strive for a playoff spot. The stakes are high, and with just weeks left in the season, each decision could prove crucial.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Red Sox navigate these adjustments in their quest to secure a stronger position in the standings.