As Opening Day approaches, the Boston Red Sox continue to make roster adjustments.
According to Rob Bradford, former All-Star Michael Fulmer has been assigned to the minors. Fulmer, who signed a two-year minor-league deal in February 2024, missed last season due to UCL revision surgery.
Despite an impressive spring, where he posted a 0.76 ERA over 11.1 innings with 12 strikeouts, he will begin the season at Triple-A Worcester. Since he does not have an opt-out clause, he will remain in the minors until a potential call-up.
The 32-year-old pitcher was the American League Rookie of the Year in 2016 after going 11-7 with a 3.06 ERA for the Tigers. He spent his first five seasons in Detroit before last pitching in the majors with the Cubs in 2023.
With Boston dealing with injuries in their rotation, Fulmer could serve as a depth option, either as a starter or a multi-inning reliever. Another non-roster invitee, Sean Newcomb, has also had a strong spring, posting a sub-1 ERA over 9.2 innings and competing for a roster spot.
How the Red Sox utilize Fulmer in Worcester could signal their plans for him later in the season, as he continues working on rebuilding his velocity following multiple injuries.