Boston Red Sox Tap Into Independent League to Nab Left-Handed Pitching Prospect

Labriola, 24, had made three relief appearances for the Boulders so far this season, and picked up his first save in the pro ranks on Saturday. That was the highlight of a season that so far has gotten off to a slow start for the 6-foot-7, 225-pound pitcher. In three innings, he gave up five runs (four earned) on seven hits and one walk.

His numbers throughout his college career don’t impress at first glance, but the Red Sox clearly saw some potential worth taking a chance.

In five seasons split between Clemson (2020-22) and North Carolina State (2023-24), Labriola had a 5-0 record but an ERA of 8.63 and a WHIP of 1.958. In 47 college games (four starts), he threw 48 innings, allowing 53 runs (46 earned) on 64 hits and 30 bases on balls. He struck out 52.

He also pitched in six games for the Rocky Mountain Vibes in the Pioneer League last summer.

Boulders manager TJ Stanton said he sees strong traits in Labriola.

“As soon as we started to pursue PJ this winter, we knew that he was a special player, and we also knew that he was very much of the radar of a few different organizations,” Stanton said in a news release.

“I could not be happier for PJ and absolutely love getting the opportunity to be a part of these great players’ baseball journeys. Hopefully there will be many more to come!”

The Red Sox have yet to announce an assignment for Labriola.