The Red Sox have signed veteran reliever Joely Rodriguez to a minor-league contract, as reported by Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. The agreement includes an invitation to major league spring training.
Rodriguez, present at the Fenway South complex in Fort Myers on Thursday morning, will not be included in Boston’s 40-man roster initially but will have the chance to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster next month.
Pitching coach Andrew Bailey expressed excitement about Rodriguez’s return, emphasizing his health as a priority. Bailey praised Rodriguez’s talent and personality, highlighting his electric pitching abilities and positive presence within the team.
Returning to the Red Sox at the age of 32, Rodriguez initially signed a one-year, $2 million contract with a 2024 option in November 2022. However, his tenure with the team was hindered by injuries, leading to a disappointing performance in the 2023 season with a career-worst ERA of 6.55.
Despite his struggles, Rodriguez showed promise with a string of scoreless outings upon his return to action. However, a hip injury cut his season short, and the Red Sox declined the club option on his contract.
With a shortage of left-handed relief options, Rodriguez’s signing provides depth to the bullpen. He joins a group of non-roster invitees competing for a bullpen spot in the upcoming season, aiming to bolster Boston’s left-handed pitching options.
Bailey emphasized the importance of having multiple left-handed pitchers to face opposing hitters, highlighting the front office’s decision to sign Rodriguez as an opportunity to enhance bullpen depth.
