REPORT: Former Tigers Rookie of the Year left off Opening Day roster in puzzling Red Sox move

With Opening Day less than a week away, the Boston Red Sox are making key roster decisions. According to Rob Bradford, former Detroit Tigers All-Star Michael Fulmer has been assigned to the minors. Fulmer, who signed a two-year minor-league deal in February 2024, missed last season due to UCL revision surgery. Despite an impressive Spring Training—posting a 0.76 ERA over 11.1 innings with 12 strikeouts—he does not have an opt-out clause and will remain in Triple-A Worcester until a potential call-up.

The 32-year-old, who won AL Rookie of the Year in 2016 with an 11-7 record and a 3.06 ERA over 159 innings, spent his first five seasons in Detroit and last pitched in the majors for the Chicago Cubs in 2023. If the Red Sox continue to struggle with rotation injuries, Fulmer could serve as a depth option or a multi-inning reliever.

Another non-roster invitee, starter Sean Newcomb, has also impressed this spring with a sub-1 ERA over 9.2 innings and was considered a competitor for a roster spot alongside Fulmer. How the Red Sox utilize Fulmer in Worcester may hint at their plans for him later in the season. Having battled injuries throughout his career, Fulmer is now focused on regaining his velocity.