Red Sox Shake Up Bullpen: Murphy Returns, Guerrero and Slaten Sidelined
The Boston Red Sox made a significant roster shake-up on Friday, reinforcing their bullpen while losing two key arms to injury.
Left-handed pitcher Chris Murphy was reinstated from the 60-day injured list after recovering from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for more than a year. The 27-year-old impressed during his minor league rehab stint, racking up 17 strikeouts over 14.2 innings across three levels. Murphy’s return gives manager Alex Cora a much-needed lefty option and some flexibility as the Red Sox bullpen battles inconsistency.
But the good news came with setbacks.
Right-hander Luis Guerrero was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right elbow strain. The 24-year-old had appeared in 13 games this season, posting a 4.15 ERA. Guerrero’s powerful fastball and late-game potential had made him a reliable option in recent weeks, making his absence a notable blow.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox also transferred right-hander Justin Slaten to the 60-day IL. Slaten, who has been out since May 29 with shoulder inflammation, had quietly been one of Boston’s most effective relievers, boasting a 3.47 ERA and 0.90 WHIP across 24 appearances. His move to the long-term injured list means he won’t be eligible to return until late July at the earliest.
With Guerrero and Slaten sidelined, the Red Sox will rely more heavily on arms like Brennan Bernardino, Zack Kelly, and Kenley Jansen. Murphy’s return is timely, but the bullpen’s depth remains fragile as the team enters a crucial stretch of the season.
The shake-up highlights both the fragility and urgency within Boston’s pitching staff—and could prompt further moves ahead of the trade deadline if the bullpen struggles continue.
