Red Sox DFA lefty reliever, recall RHP from Triple-A

The Boston Red Sox are preparing for their Sunday night game against the Chicago Cubs, and in doing so they've decided to make a move involving two pitchers.

Boston announced that they've designated lefty reliever Joely Rodriguez for assignment and recalled right-handed pitcher Naoyuki Uwasawa.

Rodriguez was expected to be a big addition to the Red Sox bullpen in 2023, and he was not good, appearing in 11 games and posting a 6.55 ERA. In 2024, he surprisingly made the roster over Brennan Bernardino , and in his first 11 appearances, he posted the same 6.55 ERA with a 1.545 WHIP.

Boston has better options for left-handed pitchers out of the bullpen than Rodriguez, so they'll be better off without him giving up almost a run an inning.

Uwasawa was signed by the Tampa Bay Rays this offseason after playing 10 years in Japan and making three NPB All-Star teams. Boston sent cash to Tampa for him right before the start of the season.

In three appearances for Worcester this season (all starts), Uwasawa has thrown 15 innings and allowed eight runs on 15 hits and four walks.

With all of the injuries that Boston has suffered, including losing 60% of their starting rotation, it wouldn't be surprising to see Uwasawa make a start for the big league club soon.