Red Sox Officially Move Fan Favorite To Bullpen; Could Eventual Trade Be Coming?

Boston is being forced to make pitching decisions finally

The Boston Red Sox finally are being forced to clear up the many questions swirling around about the club's starting rotation.

Boston entered spring training with seven players vying for the five rotation spots. Chris Sale, Corey Kluber, Brayan Bello, James Paxton, Garrett Whitlock, Tanner Houck, and Nick Pivetta all entered camp hoping to land a spot in the rotation and the expectation was that two players likely would end up in the bullpen. Injuries to Paxton, Whitlock, and Bello gave the club more time to make a decision, but now that the team is getting healthier, decisions are finally being made. 

Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced Wednesday night that right-handed hurler Nick Pivetta officially would be moved to the bullpen, according to MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo. 

Pivetta has been with the Red Sox since being acquired during the 2020 season. Since then, the righty has compiled a 4.66 ERA in 74 outings and has made just one relief appearance. At points, he has been the club's most consistent starter, but he has struggled so far this season so a move to the bullpen makes perfect sense. 

Although that is the case, he certainly didn't sound too happy when asked recently about moving to the bullpen. His response softened after Wednesday's win over the Mariners, but it certainly is a change of scenery for the seven-year veteran. 

At just 30 years old, Pivetta could have some trade value around the trade deadline if a club is looking for starting pitching. The fiery righty has been solid so far in his time with Boston and has developed into a fan favorite and hopefully can impress out of the bullpen. 

Former Red Sox hurler Garrett Richards was moved to the bullpen after a full career of starting and became one of the club's most dominant relievers in 2021. Hopefully, Pivetta can follow a similar path. If not, or if he is upset with his new role, a trade may make sense later in the summer. 

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