Red Sox Demote Player Following Ranger Suarez Announcement

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Red Sox Demote Player Following Ranger Suarez Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 26, 2026 12:11 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox reinstated Ranger Suárez from the 15-day injured list on Sunday, prompting the club to option left-handed reliever Alec Gamboa to Triple-A Worcester. The move gives Boston its scheduled starter back while opening a roster spot ahead of the series finale against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Suárez is set to make his first start since landing on the injured list with a left groin strain earlier this month. His return comes after a brief delay caused by a viral illness that pushed back his activation.

Boston entered Sunday with a 53-50 record, sitting third in the American League East, 7.5 games behind the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays. The club hopes Suárez's return will strengthen its rotation as it continues to chase a postseason spot.

The #RedSox today reinstated LHP Ranger Suarez from the 15-Day IL. To make room, Boston optioned LHP Alec Gamboa to Triple-A Worcester following yesterday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Suarez will start today’s game against Toronto.
— Red Sox (@RedSox) July 26, 2026

According to the Red Sox's official roster announcement, Gamboa was optioned to Worcester to make room for Suárez's activation. The left-hander provided valuable innings for Boston before Sunday's transaction.

Gamboa had just thrown four innings while allowing one run during Saturday's 6-0 loss to Toronto, helping preserve the remainder of the bullpen despite the defeat. His ability to be optioned without passing through waivers made him the logical roster move.

Suárez returns with a 4-3 record, 3.15 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 97 strikeouts across 91.1 innings in 17 starts during his first season with Boston. The veteran signed a five-year, $130 million contract during the offseason and was named an American League All-Star before suffering his injury.

Boston Red Sox pitcher Ranger Suárez (55) Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

Meanwhile, Gamboa heads back to Triple-A after posting a 2.08 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, one save and 12 strikeouts during his time with the major league club. Boston can now keep him stretched out while maintaining valuable organizational depth.

The Red Sox will look for Suárez to provide an immediate boost as they continue their push in a competitive AL East race. With the trade deadline approaching, getting one of their top starters back could prove just as important as any outside addition.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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