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Red Sox Move Walker Buehler To Bullpen

By Anthony Franco | August 22, 2025 at 4:24pm CDT

August 22: Buehler is indeed headed to the bullpen, Cora told reporters (video provided by NESN). Monday’s start has yet to be determined.

August 21: A disappointing season for Red Sox’s righty Walker Buehler continued on Tuesday. He only completed four innings while allowing four hits and as many walks in a home loss to the Orioles. It was the fourth time in his past five outings that Buehler issued at least three free passes, and his season earned run average is up to 5.40 across 22 starts.

Asked this evening whether Buehler would make his scheduled start on Monday, manager Alex Cora said the team “(hasn’t) talked about it yet” (via Tim Healey of The Boston Globe). While Cora wasn’t interested in discussing the situation publicly, Chris Cotillo of MassLive reports that the Sox are having internal conversations about moving Buehler to the bullpen. It’s not out of the question that he pitches in relief at some point during this weekend’s series against the Yankees. That’d obviously rule him out of starting Monday in what would be a rematch against Baltimore.

Buehler hasn’t been anywhere near as effective as hoped. The Sox signed him to a one-year, $21.05MM free agent deal that matched the price of the qualifying offer that he didn’t receive from the Dodgers. Buehler had a very poor regular season in 2024 (5.38 ERA in 16 starts) but hit the market with positive buzz after closing out the World Series. That convinced the Sox he was a solid upside play, but Buehler’s numbers this year are even worse than those of the 2024 regular season.

The righty has a career-low 16.5% strikeout rate and has gotten whiffs on just 7.7% of his pitches. The recent command woes have pushed his walk rate north of 10% for the first time in his career (outside of a 2017 debut in which he pitched fewer than 10 innings). Buehler carried a 6.12 ERA into the All-Star Break. While he has managed a serviceable 3.66 mark in the second half, he has walked as many batters as he has struck out over his past six starts.

Boston recalled former fifth starter Richard Fitts from Triple-A Worcester this afternoon. Cora said that Fitts, who has started all 17 appearances between MLB and the upper minors, will be available out of the bullpen. Fitts averaged only four innings per start while posting a near-5.00 ERA in the big leagues. The Sox pushed him out of the rotation when they acquired Dustin May at the deadline. They could reverse course and have him start on Monday.

Boston could also use both Buehler and Fitts in relief and recall one of Kyle Harrison or Cooper Criswell to work as the fifth starter. Harrison has made 10 Triple-A starts since being acquired in the Rafael Devers deal. He has a solid 3.69 ERA but has walked 12% of batters faced while averaging fewer than five innings per start with Worcester. Criswell has a 3.70 mark in 65 2/3 frames over 16 Triple-A outings.

If the Sox do pull Buehler from the rotation, it’d impact him financially. He has already picked up $1MM in bonuses by reaching 20 and 22 starts. He’d unlock another $500K each at 24, 26, and 28 starts. He’ll be a free agent next offseason when the Sox decline their end of a mutual option in favor of a $3MM buyout.

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161 Comments

  1. Redsoxx_62

    2 months ago

    Don’t bother. Just cut your losses and dfa him

    5
    Reply
    • GOP Lizards

      2 months ago

      Sox looking at creating another unhappy player, at least this time they can cut bait after this season.

      2
      Reply
      • GhostofThomasHamilton

        2 months ago

        Pretty sure Buehler is the one who created the unhappy player.

        5
        Reply
        • GOP Lizards

          2 months ago

          he was never shy about telling everyone how great he is.

          2
          Reply
      • Tree Ballins

        1 month ago

        Yeah, just keep running him out there to keep him happy. 🙄

        1
        Reply
        • GOP Lizards

          1 month ago

          who the hell suggested that? Ugh.

          1
          Reply
      • JoeBrady

        1 month ago

        Nonsense. “Unhappy”? Starting in the MLB is not an entitlement program. We would sit guys in the neighborhood softball and football teams. You need to earn you time.

        2
        Reply
    • MLB Top 100 Commenter

      2 months ago

      Walker Buehler’s day off

      22
      Reply
      • freddiemeetgibby

        1 month ago

        Walker Buehler’s off day

        4
        Reply
    • WadeBoggsWildRide

      2 months ago

      He may end up being effective out of the pen. They don’t lose much if he sucks and they dfa him in a month. I was hoping he would do well this year I liked him at peak with the Dodgers.

      5
      Reply
    • LaFleur

      1 month ago

      Yeah I dont really understand how increasing his pitch load after a second Tommy John surgery is gonna help him be more effective

      1
      Reply
      • bcjd

        1 month ago

        Nate Eovaldi would like a word.

        Reply
    • 4WSsince04

      1 month ago

      Buehler can still have ‘value’ as a multi-inning mop up pitcher.

      6
      Reply
    • Uncle Pedro’s Dancing Kittens

      1 month ago

      While he has been inconsistent as a starter, I think trying him in the pen is a better option than just designating him. You can never have too much pitching and what happens if you have an injury or two.

      3
      Reply
      • 4WSsince04

        1 month ago

        Yes, Buehler’s up side is much better than Isaiah Cambell, Nick Burdi, Jovani Moran…..

        If nothing else he is stretched out as a starter and could give you 4 or 5 innings saving the bullpen and keeping them fresh (the optic is better with Buehler than throwing Nate Eaton or some other position player an inning or two when the team is way behind).

        3
        Reply
      • Fever Pitch Guy

        1 month ago

        Uncle – I totally agree! This is the Red Sox we are talking about, they have very little SP depth. When Cora went over the options for Monday’s start, he said Fitts really is the only one and it’s basically gonna be a bullpen game. If they need to use Fitts tomorrow, then they’ll use other relievers Monday. He said Harrison is hit or miss, he made it clear it’s not likely he will use Harrison Monday.

        So releasing Buehler really isn’t an option. And it’s not like he has a 7 ERA, he’s passable in low leverage situations.

        1
        Reply
        • Uncle Pedro’s Dancing Kittens

          1 month ago

          Fever- You can understand why people would want to get rid of him because he has been a disappointment, but he has pitched some decent games and even adequate pitching is going to be difficult to find at this point in the season.

          I thought they might trade him at the deadline, but they would have needed to add more pitching to do it. With an ERA under 6 he is better than what many teams have for the back of the rotation.

          1
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Uncle – I totally agree with you! All too often here, people want to quickly release every player who has been in a prolonged slump or has had numerous injuries. It’s just not a logical approach, especially for big money players. Even the worst pitchers in MLB are capable of contributing over a period of time.

          I never thought trading him was a possibility. Who would you trade him to? Not a contender, who is looking for players that would HELP them win games.

          And not a non-contender, they don’t take on big money rental players if they are out of contention.

          1
          Reply
        • Uncle Pedro’s Dancing Kittens

          1 month ago

          Fever- Some of the writers were talking about him being a trade candidate, and I assume they would have either been looking for prospects to flip or a 1st baseman and or bullpen help. It may have been when they were unsure if the Sox would be buyers or sellers.

          Obviously so much of what is said in those articles is wild speculation and not based on fact. I believe they were talking about a national league team. I guess it would have depended on what they could have gotten back in return, but I get what you are saying by not wanting to trade him to another contender.

          1
          Reply
  2. Charlie III

    2 months ago

    I wonder what he will get next year? $5M?

    Reply
    • YankeesBleacherCreature

      2 months ago

      $12M-$14M plus incentives and a vesting player option.

      8
      Reply
      • Fever Pitch Guy

        2 months ago

        YBC – Yankees have thrown 151 pitches, 69 were balls.

        Hicks would fit perfectly on the Yankees staff!

        10
        Reply
      • battycaller

        2 months ago

        You guys are all going right to major league deals, and man, I don’t know…

        Reply
        • YankeesBleacherCreature

          2 months ago

          Look at recent past one-year’ish deals like Lance Lynn, Kyle Gibson, Lucas Giolito, etc. Buehler’s biggest selling point is his health this season.

          3
          Reply
        • battycaller

          1 month ago

          Did any of those guys put up -0.6 fWAR over that healthy season?

          Reply
        • YankeesBleacherCreature

          1 month ago

          Lynn was at -0.9.

          1
          Reply
        • battycaller

          1 month ago

          Lance Lynn’s worst career fWAR was 0.5.

          fangraphs.com/players/lance-lynn/2520/stats?positi…

          Reply
        • all in the suit that you wear

          1 month ago

          In 2023, Lance Lynn’s bWAR was -0.9

          1
          Reply
        • battycaller

          1 month ago

          Yes, and my original question was about fWAR, but it did assume that people could read, so maybe too much to hope for.

          Reply
  3. Soto should bat first.

    2 months ago

    Wait
    $21.05 million guaranteed
    Plus $1 million for 20 and 22 starts
    Plus another $1.5 million possible
    Plus the $3 million buyout

    $25.05 million already guaranteed paid/to be paid
    Just DFA him.

    6
    Reply
    • Charlie III

      2 months ago

      I think the $3M buyout is included in the $21M guarantee.

      3
      Reply
  4. BobinTexas

    2 months ago

    At least he is making decisions easy. Yes, throw him into relief and hope for the best.

    5
    Reply
  5. DarrenDreifortsContract

    2 months ago

    A lot of people were hyping up that signing on here.

    A couple of decent postseason starts and he was “Back” lmao.

    6
    Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      Yep, I was pretty excited about the signing. Thought it was a good move at the time.

      8
      Reply
      • Fever Pitch Guy

        2 months ago

        Gary – I think you’re the one who predicted Buehler to the pen, right? If so then you nailed it! May is now the official SP Sunday, Fitts may take Buehler’s place Monday.

        I’m a big fan of Biff (Fitts), would love to see him get back to being a successful SP.

        7
        Reply
        • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

          2 months ago

          I appreciate the shout out Fever but I think I read that somewhere.., either on NESN or fan graphs Red Sox.

          Aside from that, my own personal predictions don’t come out very often either. But thanks !!

          1
          Reply
      • WadeBoggsWildRide

        2 months ago

        I thought it was a good gamble.

        2
        Reply
      • WaitTil2026

        1 month ago

        Gary, I had been hoping for Pivetta to be resigned. Always liked him. But like you, I bought into the hype on Buehler.

        2
        Reply
    • Another Dodgers Fan

      2 months ago

      If he were truly back the Dodgers would have made him a qualifying offer. And either they get good walker or a solid pick.

      Love the guy, and he’s in Dodgers lore forever. But his arm wasn’t ready for a full season.

      Maybe in the off-season the dodgers can give him a show me one year deal if they feel he’s ready for the role.

      In the meantime, I appreciate the Red Sox taking care of him with that $25 mil.

      5
      Reply
      • paddyo furnichuh

        2 months ago

        I wouldn’t bet on it as it’s fantastical thinking, but that would be impressive if he flips it around in the playoffs like last year.

        1
        Reply
    • Fever Pitch Guy

      2 months ago

      Darren – You’re right, the Red Sox history of expensive lottery ticket gambles is quite bad ….. they really don’t know what they are doing.

      Let’s see how much they get out of Sandoval next year, I’m usually optimistic with everything but with him I’m skeptical.

      5
      Reply
    • FenwayMonster

      2 months ago

      Yes. That’s what we want… another RP who comes in to walk guys.

      Reply
      • Provost

        2 months ago

        If Fever says it it must be gospel…

        4
        Reply
      • GhostofThomasHamilton

        2 months ago

        He’s a troll.

        5
        Reply
      • FenwayMonster

        2 months ago

        Just mute FPG.

        4
        Reply
      • Another Dodgers Fan

        2 months ago

        Cora,

        As you stated, the Dodgers having Mookie Betts signed long term is obviously a terrible thing.

        /s

        2
        Reply
      • MLB Top 100 Commenter

        1 month ago

        Betts may be in for a massive decline if this season is any evidence, it’s 50-50 from my perspective, but as part of multiple WS championships for the Dodgers, the contract has already been worth it, anything extra is just gravy. Betts’ versatility, personality and competitiveness are a rarity in this game.

        2
        Reply
      • MLB Top 100 Commenter

        1 month ago

        Except that the team is profitable, so they will continue to spend and succeed. Spending does not guarantee anything, but when combined with development and shrewd management, I think the Dodgers will be a top franchise even when their stars age poorly.

        1
        Reply
      • Another Dodgers Fan

        1 month ago

        Even if they regressed, the players we have under long-term contract are better on their worst day than most people’s starting lineup players.

        And if they’re only just as good as a regular player in a few years that’s okay if we can get another world series or two out of it. Because ultimately that is the goal right?

        Reply
      • Reggie Smith

        1 month ago

        “are better on their worst day than most people’s starting lineup players.”

        Yesterday, the Dodgers as a whole went 3 for 28. Most starting lineups can do better.
        ———–
        “And if they’re only just as good as a regular player in a few years that’s okay”

        Superstars dont magically stop at ‘regular player’ when they age out. Ask Giancarlo Stanton, Albert Pujols and many, many more.

        4
        Reply
      • bergyman

        1 month ago

        Mookie`s best days are in the past. His Dodger career is not as good as his Red Sox years, not even close. His contract will mirror Xander’s, only worse. Injuries will multiply as they age ,the Sox got the best of both worlds. They got more production and performance for way less money. I was a big fan of both but did not regret the subsequent overpay for both. No hard feelings,I wish them good health and individual success.

        1
        Reply
      • jmi1950

        1 month ago

        For years my only post to FPG has been ” IGNORE him he’s a troll” For those who remember he was KD 17 ‘s wingman back in 2021 with the 66 win prediction for the Sox.

        5
        Reply
      • jmi1950

        1 month ago

        I love Betts but he was never going to sign with the Sox. They gave up one yr of Betts at 25 MM for Verdugo, Wong and Downs and LA took Price at a 50% discount. The only other offer was from Preller and required them to take back a bad contract and lesser players.

        4
        Reply
      • Another Dodgers Fan

        1 month ago

        Damnit Reggie. Stop making me eat my words lol.

        Maybe not on their worst day…

        1
        Reply
      • JoeBrady

        1 month ago

        I offered to wager KD on that. He had taken our record against each team and tried to extrapolate. As if one could accurately predict 50 different series. From a mathematical perspective, it was hilarious.

        1
        Reply
      • Another Dodgers Fan

        1 month ago

        Signing Mookie has helped us win 2 world series (so far). He was the impetus for all the signings we subsequently made. Friedman has gone on record as saying that.

        So I’m cool with 40 year old Mookie taking a nap on the bench during a game of he needed to. But he wouldn’t, because he’s Mookie. And it’s hard to sleep when you keep hitting yourself on accident with all those rings during your nap.

        1
        Reply
      • jmi1950

        1 month ago

        And FPG was right there agreeing with him.

        1
        Reply
    • Uncle Pedro’s Dancing Kittens

      1 month ago

      His numbers as a whole did not look impressive. I thought of him more as a desperation move when they were not signing any of the big name starters that were available. It seemed like there were quite a few people on here who were disappointed. I can’t complain because they got Crochet and Bregman, and Chapman has been far better than I expected. I at least thought Buehler would be a competitive back of the rotation starter.

      2
      Reply
  6. trotalongnixon

    2 months ago

    Criswell went on IL this week with elbow inflammation so he won’t be option

    Reply
    • WaitTil2026

      1 month ago

      Oh, that sucks… He deserved more of a chance than the Red Sox have given him.

      3
      Reply
    • Reggie Smith

      1 month ago

      “he wont be option”

      Maybe not right away, but certainly in a week or two. Right now is when playoff teams find any excuse to place guys on IL This could be something serious ,but more likely its a way to give a player a rest while you create extra options for your playoff roster.

      1
      Reply
  7. solaris602

    2 months ago

    Looks like this is the point in Buehler’s career where he really needs to transition into a reliever full time and market himself accordingly this winter. Clear he’s never gonna be the SP he used to be, so it’s time to embrace the change.

    3
    Reply
  8. okbud

    2 months ago

    How about the Portland Seadogs bullpen?

    2
    Reply
  9. outinleftfield

    2 months ago

    It’s no surprise that Buehler is having this kind of a season after 2 Tommy John surgeries. Prior to this season there had only been 3 starting pitchers that have returned from a 2nd one, thrown more than 100 IP, and produced an ERA under 4.00. DeGrom will be #4 on that list. Out of 58 SP that have had the surgery twice and came back to pitch.

    7
    Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      Eovaldi ?

      1
      Reply
      • websoulsurfer

        2 months ago

        Eovaldi, Capuano, and Taillon. It took Taillon until his 2nd season back to get his ERA under 4. He had a 3.91 ERA that season.

        2
        Reply
    • holecamels35

      2 months ago

      Two TJ surgeries in the new one at this point.

      1
      Reply
  10. sad tormented neglected mariners fan

    2 months ago

    21 million for betting on a guy returning to pre Tommy John stats

    Reply
  11. mikedickinson

    2 months ago

    Put him in the bullpen? Why? The first two innings are his worst. That will not translate well to the pen.

    2
    Reply
    • JuanUribeJazzHands

      2 months ago

      “The first two innings are his worst. ”

      False

      OPS against by inning
      1st 1.028
      2nd .688
      3rd .424
      4th 1.111
      5th .819
      6th .768
      7th .091

      baseball-reference.com/players/split.fcgi?id=buehl…

      1
      Reply
      • Reggie Smith

        1 month ago

        Ty Juan for link. I never click on BR’s splits page. Theyve got some interesting catergories.

        Reply
  12. Fever Pitch Guy

    2 months ago

    Criswell isn’t an option right now.

    He just went on the IL with right elbow inflammation.

    5
    Reply
  13. Sean P

    2 months ago

    This team is driving me insane with these RISP catastrophes!!!

    8
    Reply
    • ClevelandSteelEngines

      2 months ago

      A two strike swing is needed to address it. Shorten up, spread out, and make contact!

      9
      Reply
      • Sean P

        2 months ago

        Spot on.

        3
        Reply
      • TB Sox NY

        2 months ago

        Homeruns or extra base hits get you paid not bunting people over or moving runners over.Nobody with launch angle in mind is thinking slapping a single to right.

        Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          2 months ago

          TB – I understand not everyone is a team player like Xander, Raffy, Mookie etc but winning games should be the Red Sox hitters priority … not padding their HR stats.

          There is absolutely no way a little guy like Rafaela should be swinging for the fences with every pitch. We get it, he gets off on the adulation he receives when he hits homeruns. Who freakin’ cares. He should be shortening up his swing, trying for line drives and hard hit ground balls. With his speed, he could leg out just as many base hits as Duran.

          At the very least Rafaela should be advancing runners in Close & Late games. I know he’s not the brightest bulb, but why isn’t Cora and the coaching staff drilling this into him? He’s batting .187 with a .484 OPS over his last 30 games for God’s sake, and ironically he doesn’t have even one homerun in that span. It’s totally messed up.

          9
          Reply
    • Sean P

      2 months ago

      Roman!!!!

      4
      Reply
    • Fever Pitch Guy

      2 months ago

      Sean – Did you hear the Fox announcers mocking Rafaela for swinging and missing a pitch that was like a foot out of the strike zone.

      You’re right though, Sox should have put up at least double digits.

      And I can’t believe they were gifted a third engagement balk for the second night in a row!!! See that’s why I tell people Hamilton has a lot of value, his speed created the balk that led to a run.

      4
      Reply
      • Sean P

        2 months ago

        Haha I did.

        So many thoughts tonight…

        The RISP hitting is a huge issue. Rafaela and Narvarez need a reboot at the plate. Lowe would have fit right in with the dirt dogs. Chapman and Bregman need to stay in Boston, regardless of the price. And yeah, I agree, Hamilton belongs on this team even with his bonehead plays. Sleeping at 3B and whatever that was with him trying to field the bad throw from Narvy. He’s got value between the stat lines for sure.

        Even though technically his homerun would be classified as mid (low even?) situational hitting, Roman is so clutch. He’s going to have huge numbers at yankee stadium over his career. They are going to hate him on a whole new level, and well, that just makes me so happy 😀. That bat flip almost brought a tear to my eye.

        Easily one of the most frustrating games of the season! I really don’t understand what goes on in Cora’s head as far as managing a game goes. The moves he makes, the moves he doesn’t make, matchups, the base running decisions, green lights, red lights. Luckily it all worked out tonight. Huge win

        3
        Reply
        • DirtyWater04

          1 month ago

          I’ve been one of the slowest people in RSN to turn on Cora but I’ve finally really been seeing it lately with respect to all criticisms his detractors levy against him. My god, this team plays so dumb sometimes. Everyone trying to play hero ball once there are a couple baserunners while being completely unable to put a ball in play is infuriating. A better manager would squash this!

          2
          Reply
        • swanhenge

          1 month ago

          Totally agree. Even LH Masa failed to move a runner to 3rd w one out. The situational hitting needs work.
          It’s great seeing so many base runners, but you have to move em around. That’s on the coaching staff.

          2
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Dirty – I was also slow to realize Cora is clueless, the light didn’t go off for me until ST 2019 when he had the pitchers pitch like a total of 4 innings and the hitters get like 20 PA’s total (using estimates there, but you get my point)..

          And of course the 108-win World Series champions started 2019 with a 11-17 record and a Run Differential of -36. That was my woke moment.

          4
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          swan – You know why Lowe has done so well thus far?

          Because Cora and his henchmen haven’t had a chance to mess him up yet.

          4
          Reply
        • swanhenge

          1 month ago

          He’s looking like a perfect fit in there vs RHP. Looks solid on D as well. He’ll be fine.

          Bello rock solid tonight. Need that big hit out of someone..!

          2
          Reply
        • Sean P

          1 month ago

          Hands down Alex Cora’s best game of the year.

          1
          Reply
        • swanhenge

          1 month ago

          Tonight reminded me of the KC World Series teams. Get a good 6-7 out of the starter and then the BP just dominates. Looks great when it works.

          Great win despite more untimely hitting. Crochet tomorrow. Feeling good

          2
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Sean – You meant to type Wong I assume ;o)

          4
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Swan – And I’m feeling real good about my 3-of-4 prediction!

          Another big thing nobody is talking about, Sox clinched the season series tonight. Tiebreakers can come in really handy for the postseason.

          5
          Reply
        • Sean P

          1 month ago

          lol no seriously. Every move he made was correct. I may have left Bello in to start the 8th and let him earn each additional batter but Whitlock was fire. Lowe pinch hitting was great. Hamilton came in and made a good play. I didn’t mind the aggressiveness at 3rd base even though Duran was out by a mile. Can we talk about the plate blocking? Is or is that not a rule? I absolutely am not a fan of Cora but I thought he did well tonight.

          Let’s go ahead and move Roman back to leadoff. His approach is different in the 3 hole.

          Bello… What a stud

          Wong earned a lot more playing time as well.

          Throughly enjoyed the game. We got the big dog pitching next and I’m feeling good about the weekend

          5
          Reply
        • Sean P

          1 month ago

          We have the tie breakers over Seattle and KC (god forbid we need that) as well

          3
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Sean – How did you feel when Hicks began warming up? LOL!

          Seriously though it was one of the easiest games to manage. Bello was brilliant through 6 with a low pitch count. Then it will always be Whit for the 8th and Chap for the 9th. Lowe PH was a no-brainer too.

          Hey before I forget, HAPPY 86TH BIRTHDAY CAPTAIN CARL!!! 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈

          5
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          Sean – KC and Cleveland will fade. I don’t see the Sox collapsing, because their pitching is too good. Print those playoff tickets. (I know they are all digital LOL!)

          2
          Reply
        • Sean P

          1 month ago

          Hey man at this point it’s the no brainer things he is screwing up. Definitely an easy game to manage. But we know how he manages to screw those up.

          When I saw Hicks warming up I was getting ready to throw the remote. Seriously. 😐

          Saw a picture of Yaz earlier today on the broadcast looking like a stud. Big shout out to the man the myth and the legend

          2
          Reply
  14. HBan22

    2 months ago

    It’s an even more bitter pill to swallow watching Nick Pivetta (who he replaced) dominate this season for the Padres. I know he may not have been quite as good had he returned to the Sox, but he also most definitely wouldn’t have been nearly as bad as Buehler has been.

    5
    Reply
    • Joemo

      2 months ago

      I think Pivetta benefits a ton from pitching half his games at Petco instead of Fenway. Fenway is the second most hitter friendly park, and Petco is a pitcher friendly park.

      Good for him though, he always had he stuff and just couldn’t put it all together consistently.

      I don’t think he would have been this successful in Boston, and he’s might (might!) finish top 5 in NL Cy Young voting.

      3
      Reply
      • websoulsurfer

        2 months ago

        ERA+ takes into account the ballpark and Pivetta went from a 99
        ERA+ in Fenway to a 152 ERA+ in Petco.

        Niebla is a genius.

        1
        Reply
        • Joemo

          2 months ago

          ERA+ takes into account park.factors, but doesn’t take into account that an inning can quickly unravel when that long fly ball turns into a HR and the inning quickly gets away from the pitcher.

          Not saying that Niebla isn’t a great pitching coach, but that sometimes you need to look beyond the numbers. They don’t paint the full picture.

          2
          Reply
    • 4WSsince04

      1 month ago

      Pivetta is 32 and got a 4 year $55 million from the Padres…..No thank you for 4 years. I would have signed him for 2 years, but not 4.

      The Pivetta contract is at least better than paying Bogaets until age 41…

      2
      Reply
      • all in the suit that you wear

        1 month ago

        Agreed. I did not want Pivetta for 4 years either.

        1
        Reply
  15. gbs42

    2 months ago

    A 3.66 ERA is “serviceable?” I’d call it pretty good.

    5
    Reply
  16. DonOsbourne

    2 months ago

    The Red Sox need to do something. This team should be running down the Blue Jays, but they’re finding ways to lose.

    I still hope the Cardinals try to sign Buehler in the offseason. He’s a perfect buy low candidate for a team that NEEDS high end arms.

    2
    Reply
    • Ignorant Son-of-a-b

      2 months ago

      The Cardinals could use a 40 HR bat as well…sign Schwarber??

      Reply
      • DonOsbourne

        2 months ago

        I mean sure, but in reality the Cardinals aren’t going to be big spenders this offseason. Take a shot on a buy-low bounce back candidate? Yeah. Outspend the Phillies and others for Schwarbs? No way. The Cardinals are planning another “runway” season(s) until Gray, Arenado, and Contreras are off the books or moved.

        2
        Reply
        • swanhenge

          1 month ago

          Cora… why do you come here to comment on commenters?

          3
          Reply
        • FenwayMonster

          1 month ago

          Do yourself a favor and just “mute” him. You will thank me later.

          2
          Reply
        • Fever Pitch Guy

          1 month ago

          swan – I can’t see what that account wrote because I muted it long ago, but thank you for saying what we’ve all been saying here ….. they should talk about baseball, not the commenters.

          I’ve said repeatedly, if they don’t enjoy my posts then why don’t they mute me? ESPECIALLY if I’ve already muted them.

          I don’t spend all this time and energy writing for the haters, I write for the vast majority here who are good people and great baseball fans. Those who are obsessed with me need to get a life, and more therapy.

          Good to see Lowe back in the lineup today hitting 5th, with Duran 3rd and Roman leadoff. Will probably be a low-scoring game. Will they use Chapman again if needed? My gut says no because it’s not a must-win game. He’s thrown 24 pitches over the past two days though, not a lot.

          3
          Reply
        • all in the suit that you wear

          1 month ago

          No one is obsessed with you FPG. It usually does not take long to point out something you have made up or point out your trolling.

          2
          Reply
    • Fever Pitch Guy

      2 months ago

      Don – No team that has Rafaela, Hamilton/Romy, Narvaez/Wong in the lineup nearly every day is good enough to challenge the Jays.

      Playoffs is very realistic for the Red Sox, but beating the Jays is not something I’d bet on.

      3
      Reply
      • whyhayzee

        1 month ago

        Wong got the winning hit. Swinging the bat well. Hamilton made a nice defensive play.

        3
        Reply
  17. FenwayMonster

    2 months ago

    Let’s bring up Tolle and see what he can do? He can’t be any worse.

    2
    Reply
    • jmi1950

      1 month ago

      Both Tolle by Sept 1 and Slayton soon could be huge.

      2
      Reply
  18. Rsox

    2 months ago

    I would probably just release Buehler instead of dumping him in the bullpen as i don’t feel like he’s the type to take the demotion well

    2
    Reply
    • Sean P

      2 months ago

      Agreed. Dude is so emotional. And not to mention, other teams jump on him early, often. So it’s not like it takes a few times through the order to figure him out. Not exactly the best makeup for a bullpen guy. The stuff just isn’t there yet (if it ever comes back), and his head isn’t processing that well. I do love the “dog” in him and thought it wasn’t the worst signing. Would have preferred to have spent the money elsewhere, but I understood what they were trying to do.

      3
      Reply
      • Fever Pitch Guy

        2 months ago

        Sean – Buehler has a rep for being a bad teammate too …. getting mad when plays aren’t made behind him, etc. It was just an awful all-around signing. Unfortunately Breslow thought he was smarter than everyone else by giving him the exact amount the Dodgers refused to give.

        5
        Reply
        • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

          2 months ago

          Yup and it’s only fitting because the guy he replaced, Nick Pivetta, I believe had the same reputation.

          Reply
        • Tardaddy

          2 months ago

          I was hoping the Sox would have signed Brandon Woodruff instead who is now having a great year

          2
          Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      I’ll disagree this year. He has admitted that he’s been terrible and so to build his value and that he’s capable of getting guys out I think a move to the pen is something he would welcome right now. Just my two cents.

      3
      Reply
    • MeowMeow

      1 month ago

      He’s had some success out of the bullpen in the past, and I don’t think he can really deny his starter effectiveness has tanked.

      1
      Reply
  19. BadCo

    2 months ago

    He has certainly been given a shot at the rotation and failed miserably. He has taxed the pen far too often. Time to move on!

    2
    Reply
  20. GenoSeligPrieb

    2 months ago

    Good thing there’s a salary cap keeping big market teams from spending over $21 million for 1 year of an awful pitcher. Wait…

    Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      Wait for what?

      The Red Sox offered the 21 million to Nick Pivetta for some of that 5. something ERA but he took his act wisely to Petco Park. Smart move.

      Enter Walker Bueller 5. something ERA and everything is fine. He bought us some time, ate up some innings here and there, and here we are.

      Nobody’s mad at him. I certainly am not. It’s a one year deal.

      We come back next winter and as every team in the league, do some more gambling and sign some more pitchers. Some work out and many don’t.

      5
      Reply
      • GenoSeligPrieb

        2 months ago

        Not if you’re in a bottom 15 TV market!

        Boston’s guilty of doing “Evil Empire” moves that they demonized the Yankees with.

        Why not…godforbid…draft and develop pitchers?

        Pee away $21 million on 1 season of a guy who was already bad? Meh. It’s a gamble! Print some more money. The Rays, Brewers, Mariners could NEVER have this attitude, because they have to be a lot more resourceful.

        Under a cap, the smarter teams without Boras client superstars would dominate, and Manfred and the union definitely don’t want that.

        1
        Reply
        • YankeesBleacherCreature

          1 month ago

          You’re a fan of a perennial bottom 5 payroll team I gather?

          1
          Reply
    • Another Dodgers Fan

      2 months ago

      @Geno

      If you think a salary cap is guaranteed to fix bad personnel decisions, I would like to refer you to the NBA and NFL. Plenty of bad personnel moves in those leagues.

      A bad organization will always make bad decisions overall, regardless of what they spend, or how that spending is capped. And the fans of those bad trans will always think the better run organizations are somehow cheating. Which is hilarious to me.

      3
      Reply
      • FenwayMonster

        1 month ago

        MLBPA will never allow MLB to incorporate a salary cap.

        1
        Reply
  21. CO Guardening

    2 months ago

    I came for the Dick Fitts jokes. Leaving disappointed.
    “Thats what she said.”

    1
    Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      Mainstream Red Sox nation took care of all those a while ago.

      But we welcome the new guy who inserts the convenient “fitting of Richard” jokes at any time they desire.

      2
      Reply
    • Another Dodgers Fan

      1 month ago

      That’s not the Dick Mountain to die on.

      1
      Reply
      • Another Dodgers Fan

        1 month ago

        Oops, the Rich Hill…

        1
        Reply
        • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

          1 month ago

          No problem…, Rich fitts here too !!

          1
          Reply
        • Another Dodgers Fan

          1 month ago

          Here’s the obligatory “That’s what she said!”

          I promise I’m not twelve…

          Reply
  22. Sad.Sox 3

    2 months ago

    For all of you that wanted Buehler over two years of Nick Pivetta……….
    Breslow strikes again!

    1
    Reply
    • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

      2 months ago

      You have a short memory. Nick Pivetta was here for several years and it was cringe worthy.., but steady !!

      He declined the one year $20 million QO thing because he was seeking multiple years.

      Aren’t the Padres going to pay him 30 something million in that fourth year?

      I think your comment lacks a reasonable assessment of the entire situation you’re writing on.

      4
      Reply
    • Joemo

      1 month ago

      I didn’t want the Sox to re-sign Pivetta but that doesn’t mean I think he’s a bad pitcher. He just couldn’t put it together in Boston. I think he’s benefitted greatly from SDP in terms of pitching staff and ballpark. Playing half his games at Petco is much better for him than Fenway. He’s always has great stuff, I’m happy for him.

      That being said, I didn’t want Buehler either. Or Sandoval. Wonder who they will sign next off-season. Montgomery?

      2
      Reply
    • GhostofThomasHamilton

      1 month ago

      Like he struck with Crochet, Bregman and Chapman?

      Reply
  23. DarkSide830

    2 months ago

    Take him off the stove, he’s cooked.

    1
    Reply
  24. Tardaddy

    2 months ago

    Let Criswell start and use Fitts or Buehler as a piggyback

    1
    Reply
    • jmi1950

      1 month ago

      Criswell’s on the IL. But Fitts-Bueller works. Fitts is good for 4 strong innings and Bueller will be pitching for his next contract just as he did when LA put him in relief for the WS.

      1
      Reply
  25. Tardaddy

    2 months ago

    Red Sox really need to go after Milwaukee’s pitching coach- they work wonders with the pitching staff there

    2
    Reply
  26. TunaNoCrust

    2 months ago

    I sure wish Boston would waste money on people that deserve it, like me! Lol

    2
    Reply
  27. simonkiller

    1 month ago

    Talented pitcher with two TJS’s.

    Too bad he didn’t grab the bag first.

    Reply
  28. 30 Parks

    1 month ago

    This will help the bullpen. Hopefully this goes smoothly in terms of attitude & chemistry (and I think Buehler will be a professional).

    1
    Reply
    • Joemo

      1 month ago

      How does this help the bullpen. It hurts the bullpen. Buehler is not a good pitcher and I’d rather see Jordan Hicks pitch than Buehler.

      Reply
      • 30 Parks

        1 month ago

        The Sox bullpen is not strong. Adding Buehler helps. Not having to get through a lineup 2-3 times will ease the pressure – Buehler will be an asset in the bullpen.

        1
        Reply
        • Joemo

          1 month ago

          Buehler is actually worse against the lineup the first time through than the others. He’s surprisingly better the second time through, with a similar sample size.

          There’s a section on his baseball reference, pitching splits, Time Facing Opponent In Game – about halfway down the page.

          baseball-reference.com/players/split.fcgi?id=buehl…

          And yeah, it’s not the strongest bullpen, that’s what I think of Buehlers pitching ability right now. Unless he’s the long relief guy they throw in a blowout.

          Reply
        • GaryRedSoxxWarriors

          1 month ago

          I like it 30 Parks. I think he can be available in those games we’re behind a couple of runs and eat up three innings. 3-5 or 4-6. We actually need a guy like that.

          1
          Reply
        • jmi1950

          1 month ago

          The Sox bullpen has the best ERA in the AL.

          3
          Reply
  29. Acoss1331

    1 month ago

    I just want to say, Red Sox and Yankees have very similar things going on both teams. Cora and Boone really do suck.

    2
    Reply
    • Another Dodgers Fan

      1 month ago

      I would definitely agree with you on Cora. He is a terrible communicator to his players and to the media.

      Yes former player and all that. But there have been a number of issues which could have been so much better if he possessed even average communication skills.

      1
      Reply
      • JoeBrady

        1 month ago

        How do you know he can’t communicate with his players? Are you one of his players?

        2
        Reply
        • Another Dodgers Fan

          1 month ago

          No, I just listen to them speak.

          Reply
  30. AK sox fan

    1 month ago

    Control and home runs have killed him. Hopefully out of the pen concentrating on one or tw0 innings will help him. It seamed to work with Piveta last year when he go moved to the pen. The talent and knowing how to pitch is defiantly there!

    2
    Reply
    • whyhayzee

      1 month ago

      You misspelled two words and a name but the new words make perfect sense in the context.

      Reply
  31. whyhayzee

    1 month ago

    I actually give Boone a little credit today leaving Blackburn in the game. Who cares? Why use someone decent in that situation?

    Cora bringing in Wilson was spot on. And giving Hicks the 9th was good. He even walked a batter with an 11 run lead. Good lord, throw strikes.

    Boone using Hill was typical, he’s their go to lefty with an apparent rubber arm. Just be careful Dr. Boonedoggle, you’re still the leader in blowing out arms, even rubber ones.

    I have to say yesterday’s 1-0 game was an absolute feast of balls being called strikes in the Red Sox favor. It’s like the dumpire paid them back all in one game.

    As you were.

    Reply
  32. Reggie Smith

    1 month ago

    Giolito is stuck in a Catch-22.

    Everything about the way he is pitching right now says he needs a rest. I believe, a week or even two would do the guy wonders for rebuilding his arm strength for the playoff charge. And, in fact, the Red Sox tried it a couple of weeks ago, yet he nixed it, most likely to try to achieve that ‘over 140 IPs pitched opt-out clause’ in his contract.

    So now he stuck. If he takes a couple of weeks off, he wont reach 140 IP. And if he continues to pitch through it and gets racked, and subsequently gets pulled after 3 or 4 innings he wont reach it either.

    Hmmm, what to do, what to do.

    Reply
    • GhostofThomasHamilton

      1 month ago

      He has a 3.42 ERA in August, He had a 3.41 ERA in July.. His ERA over the past 30 days is 3.03. espn.com/mlb/player/splits/_/id/32697/lucas-giolit…

      He’s not getting a “couple of weeks off” They’re trying to make the playoffs.

      Reply
      • Reggie Smith

        1 month ago

        I specifically said “a week or even two”. You must have missed that.

        You say because of the “playoffs”. Was the playoff race paused in early August, or something. Since they skipped Crochet and wanted to skip Giolito’s turn in the rotation (which wouldve made it more than a week between starts) back then.

        Reply
        • acell10

          1 month ago

          Giolito won’t get a week or two off either. That makes no sense especially given his stats in august.

          Reply
        • Reggie Smith

          1 month ago

          “wont get a week or tow off either”

          When did I say he was? I said I think he needs it, and it creates a quandary with his the 140 innings clause. Why you changing my words? Just to argue? This place really sucks for conversation.

          Reply
        • acell10

          1 month ago

          His stats seem to indicate he doesn’t need a week or two off. that was my point. Hence he won’t get it off because he doesn’t need it.

          Reply

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