The Boston Red Sox have finalized a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers, sending left-handed reliever Zach Penrod to the NL West team. This move comes after the Red Sox designated Penrod for assignment to accommodate roster adjustments following their significant trade involving star player Rafael Devers. The specifics of the trade’s return for Penrod remain undisclosed.
Penrod, who joined the Red Sox as an undrafted free agent from independent baseball in August 2023, made his Major League debut last September, showcasing a promising 2.25 ERA over four innings in seven appearances. However, his chances of making the Opening Day roster were hindered by an elbow sprain, which, although not requiring surgery, led to his temporary shutdown. He has since been performing in Worcester, accumulating four earned runs and seven hits over 6 ⅓ innings.
As Boston bolstered its bullpen with the recent additions of lefty relievers Aroldis Chapman and Justin Wilson, Penrod’s standing in the organization diminished. He now faces a new opportunity with the Dodgers, where he may have a chance to contribute to their playoff aspirations, potentially beginning his tenure at Triple-A.
This trade reflects both clubs’ strategies as they navigate the season, with the Red Sox solidifying their pitching roster while the Dodgers look to enhance their bullpen depth for a potential postseason push. Overall, this could serve as a fresh start for Penrod, allowing him to develop further under a new organization while playing in a competitive environment.