The Boston Red Sox have decided to option left-handed pitcher Connelly Early to Triple-A Worcester at the start of the season, assuming Johan Oviedo secures the final spot in the major league rotation, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Oviedo is widely regarded as the leading contender for the No. 5 rotation role.
Early’s Performance and Roster Considerations
Early impressed during his MLB debut last season, delivering four regular-season starts with a 2.33 ERA and 1.09 WHIP, striking out 29 batters while walking only four over 19.1 innings. Despite these promising numbers, the Red Sox do not plan to use Early in a bullpen capacity this year amid their enhanced starting rotation lineup. The team’s offseason acquisitions have made competition for rotation spots particularly tough.
Strategic Timing and Future Outlook for Early
By assigning Early to Triple-A Worcester for at least 35 days, the Red Sox can delay his service time, potentially gaining an additional year of control over the left-hander. Early is expected to eventually join Boston’s rotation, possibly during the 2026 season, once he gains more experience and the team’s pitching needs evolve.
“Oviedo is the clear frontrunner to win the No. 5 spot in the rotation, and Boston has no plans to keep Early in the majors as a member of the bullpen.” ? Chris Cotillo, Reporter
