Richard Fitts Secures Fourth Starter Spot for Red Sox
Right-handed pitcher Richard Fitts has performed impressively during this spring training, leading Red Sox manager Alex Cora to confirm to the media, including MLB.com’s Ian Browne, that Fitts has officially claimed the fourth starter position. Competing for the fifth starter role are Sean Newcomb and Quinn Priester, rounding out the rotation alongside Fitts, Garret Crochet, Tanner Houck, and Walker Buehler.
Injuries Impacting Red Sox Rotation Plans
This spring, injuries have complicated the Red Sox’s rotation strategy. Brayan Bello is dealing with shoulder soreness, Lucas Giolito has a hamstring strain, and Kutter Crawford is experiencing right knee soreness, meaning all will start the season on the injured list. These setbacks have pushed Fitts and others into the spotlight for potential starting roles.
Fitts’ Strong Performance and Future Prospects
Last season, Fitts demonstrated his potential by posting a 1.74 ERA across his first 20 2/3 innings in the major leagues after being called up in September. Initially part of the Yankees’ minor league system, he joined the Red Sox as part of a three-player trade package for Alex Verdugo last winter. Notably, he logged a 4.17 ERA over 116 2/3 innings with Triple-A Worcester, which set the stage for Fitts’ late-season opportunity. This spring, he has continued his good form with a 2.45 ERA in 14 2/3 innings.
Red Sox Roster Decisions Underway
While Fitts has secured a place on the Opening Day roster, the Red Sox have further roster decisions to finalize before camp concludes. Recent reports from MassLive.com’s Chris Cotillo and Christopher Smith reveal that right-hander Michael Fulmer and catcher Seby Zavala will not be part of the team, with Julian McWilliams of the Boston Globe confirming the same for veteran pitchers Matt Moore and Adam Ottavino.
Opt-Out Clauses and Minor League Assignments
Both Moore and Ottavino hold Article XX(b) free agent status, which allows them opt-out clauses in their minor league contracts today, on May 1, and June 1, unless they are added to the major league roster. With the announcement that they will not make the team, it’s now up to them to decide whether to activate their opt-out options or remain in the Red Sox’s farm system. In contrast, Zavala lacks the service time for XX(b) status but has an opt-out clause; he stated he would join Triple-A Worcester unless another 40-man roster chance arises within the next day.
Red Sox Exploring Depth Options
Despite Fitts securing his spot, the Red Sox are also exploring additional depth at first base. Triston Casas is the primary first baseman, but bench options like Wong, Romy Gonzalez, and Rob Refsnyder have experience in that role. However, Refsnyder hasn’t played first since 2020, and Wong’s usage in that position would complicate the catching situation.
Red Sox Organizational Changes
In a notable organizational update, The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey reports on the significant changes implemented by Craig Breslow since assuming the role of chief baseball officer in fall 2023. Breslow has overhauled several departments, altering how they function, while increasing focus on an analytics-driven approach by boosting the research and development team and reducing the scouting divisions. While some have embraced these changes, others within the organization have expressed discontent, leading to tension among staff. Breslow acknowledged that tough decisions had to be made but expressed hope that the rationale behind these changes was understood, aiming to enhance the team’s competitiveness.
