Red Sox make surprise move an option Brennan Bernardino to Triple-A Worcester
The Red Sox made a surprise move on Monday night, optioning left-hander Brennan Bernardino to Triple-A Worcester.
Bernardino looked like a lock to make the Opening Day roster as camp closed on Sunday. Instead, the lefty will report to the WooSox.
Red Sox skipper Alex Cora told reporters in Texas that sending Bernardino down was a tough decision for the team. Cora still expects Bernardino to contribute in the majors throughout the season.
Following the Red Sox 9-2 exhibition win over the Rangers, Cora told reporters, including the Boston Globe’s Peter Abraham, that Greg Weissert has made the Opening Day roster.
There’s still a chance that Boston could look to an external option as an upgrade for the bullpen, similar to signing Chace Anderson, who opted out of his deal with the Pirates over the weekend and then signed with the Red Sox.
The Red Sox claimed Bernardino from the Mariners on April 16 of last season, and he made his club debut eight days later. He pitched in 55 games (six starts as an opener), posting a 3.20 ERA while striking out 58 batters in 50 2/3 innings.
Bernardino had a strong spring; he struck out five batters in 6 2/3 exhibition innings this spring while posting a 0.00 ERA in seven games.
With Bernardino heading to Worcester, the club will carry one lefty in the bullpen. Joely RodrÃguez made the Opening Day roster on Friday. The southpaw had the ability to opt out of his deal and elect free agency. Instead, the Red Sox will carry the left-hander who is looking to rebound from a injury-plagued 2023 season.Â
The WooSox will now feature five lefties to open their season. Bernardino, Joe Jacques, Jorge Benitez, Cam Booser and Lucas Luetge will all be at Chad Tracy's disposal in Triple-A.Â
Boston opens the season on Thursday night in Seattle against the Mariners.
