Boston Red Sox Surprisingly Cut Ties With Key Pitcher

The Boston Red Sox have designated right-handed reliever Ryan Watson for assignment, a move that clears space in the bullpen following an aggressive trade deadline.

The decision, reported by team sources, comes as the club continues reshaping its roster in pursuit of a postseason berth.

Watson, a 6-foot-5 right-hander, joined the Red Sox earlier this year after the Athletics selected him in the Rule 5 Draft. Boston acquired him in exchange for Justin Reimer and cash considerations, then kept him on the active roster throughout the season to retain his rights.

In 35 appearances, Watson went 1-0 with a 4.53 ERA and converted his only save opportunity. While serviceable, those numbers left him vulnerable once the organization identified a higher-upside alternative.

That alternative is left-hander Erik Miller, acquired from the San Francisco Giants. Miller has posted a 2-0 record and 2.76 ERA across 38 games this season, generating swings and misses with premium stuff from the left side.

Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow described the addition as a chance to secure a back-end reliever capable of shortening games down the stretch and into October, especially given the dense late-season schedule that often requires multiple high-leverage arms on short rest.

The cost of landing Miller included parting with Marcelo Mayer, once the organization’s top prospect. Breslow acknowledged Mayer’s importance to the franchise’s future core while expressing confidence that the young player will thrive in San Francisco.

The Red Sox also added outfielder Carlos Gutierrez, now ranked as their 14th prospect, as part of the broader deadline activity.

Boston’s deadline approach reflected a clear intent to improve both the present and the near-term outlook.

The centerpiece was the acquisition of catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles, a proven star who brings switch-hitting production, elite defense, and on-base skills well suited to Fenway Park. Depth outfielder Eli White arrived as well, giving the club additional options in the outfield.

At 60-51 and sitting third in the American League East, the Red Sox trail the New York Yankees by two games for the top wild-card position.

With the bullpen reinforced and a high-impact catcher now in the fold, the club is positioning itself for a strong finish.

Designating Watson for assignment is simply the latest roster adjustment required to make room for the new pieces.