Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora told reporters that his team’s roster would not be finalized until after its exhibition games against the Texas Rangers on March 25 and 26.
Following the first of two games, Boston made a surprising roster adjustment involving one of the bright stars on the 2023 squad.
Brennan Bernardino has been demoted to Triple-A, according to the Red Sox transactions page. Last year, the 32-year-old contributed significantly to Boston’s bullpen success.
Bernardino had a breakout campaign in 2023. He made his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners the previous year at the age of 30, pitching only 2.1 innings. The left-hander then surprised the Red Sox with his ability, compiling a 3.20 ERA in 50.2 innings with 58 strikeouts.
The southpaw worked as a reliever and opener for Boston during a season when the team struggled to maintain its starting pitchers healthy. Despite being one of the only left-handed pitchers in the bullpen, Joely Rodríguez will continue to be the sole one on Boston’s pitching staff. Rodríguez is out of minor-league options, while Bernardino still has one. The Sox are attempting to retain both of their left-handed assets.
Lucas Luetge remains the Sox’s third lefty option in the bullpen. Luetge failed not make the Opening Day roster and will start the season in Triple-A. He had the option to opt out of his contract with Boston if he did not make the first 26-man roster, but the deadline had passed.
Bernardino’s time in Triple-A will most likely be brief, allowing the Sox to explore their options. Keeping Bernardino and Rodríguez is crucial for Boston’s bullpen, which is already struggling due to Chris Murphy’s absence and Josh Winckowski’s recent injury.
Cora told reporters during the Sox’s game on March 25 that Bernardino will return to the majors this season and that optioning him was a difficult decision. With any luck, Red Sox fans will see Bernardino in the majors sooner rather than later, where he can continue to make a statement out of the Sox’s bullpen.
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