Report: Red Sox Add To Bullpen By Activating Veteran Reliever Off IL
The Boston Red Sox bullpen, which had struggled after the All-Star break, now looks quite different.
Another change occurred Wednesday when the Red Sox activated veteran reliever Chris Martin from the injured list. To make room for Martin on the active roster, the Red Sox optioned Cam Booser to Triple-A Worcester.
“Where we are roster-wise, it makes sense right now,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said before Wednesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. “(Booser) is going to be part of this. They’re all going to be part of this. But Chris is ready to go today.”
Martin, who hasn’t pitched since July 3 due to right elbow inflammation, spent over a month on the injured list—his second stint there this season. He also did not go on a rehab assignment before rejoining the Red Sox.
Although Martin had a career year in 2023, he hasn’t replicated that success this season. However, the 38-year-old right-hander remains a reliable arm for Cora in late-game, high-leverage situations. Martin has made 26 appearances this season, posting a 2-1 record with a 3.42 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP, along with 29 strikeouts in 26 1/3 innings.
Martin will join trade deadline additions Lucas Sims and Luis García to form a late-inning bridge to closer Kenley Jansen, who dominated in Boston’s narrow win over the Royals on Tuesday night, securing a four-out save with just 13 pitches.