BREAKING: The Boston Red Sox have officially called up pitching prospect Connelly Early for his major league debut as they face the Oakland Athletics today. This urgent move comes as the team places Dustin May on the injured list with right elbow neuritis, retroactive to Sunday.
Early, a 23-year-old left-hander and the Red Sox’s seventh-ranked prospect, was selected in the fifth round of the 2023 amateur draft. He is the third pitcher to make his MLB debut with Boston this season, following Hunter Dobbins and Payton Tolle. In his impressive season at Triple-A Worcester, Early posted a record of 3-1 with a 3.32 ERA and 36 strikeouts over 28 2/3 innings. Earlier, he excelled at Double-A Portland, going 7-2 with a remarkable 2.51 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 71 2/3 innings.
The Red Sox are feeling the impact of May’s injury. Since joining from the Los Angeles Dodgers at the end of July, he struggled with a 1-4 record in five starts and one relief appearance, compiling a 5.40 ERA with 26 strikeouts in 28 1/3 innings. During his tenure with the Dodgers, May had a 6-7 record with a 4.85 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 104 innings.
In addition to this pitching shuffle, the Red Sox have recalled infielder Vaughn Grissom from Triple-A Worcester but have placed him on the 60-day IL due to plantar fasciitis. This string of injuries is putting pressure on the Red Sox as they strive to maintain their competitive edge.
As fans eagerly await Early’s debut, the Red Sox will be looking for immediate results against the Athletics. With the playoff race heating up, every game counts, and the team’s resilience will be tested. Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation as the Red Sox navigate these critical challenges.
