The Red Sox have released right-hander Walker Buehler, clearing a roster spot for prospect Payton Tolle. The team also optioned outfielder Jhostynxon García and recalled infielder Nick Sogard. Chris Cotillo of MassLive reported the release ahead of the club’s official announcement.
Buehler signed a one-year, $21.05 million deal with Boston in the offseason, a high-profile bet on a bounceback after his standout success with the Dodgers. He had been an ace earlier in his career, finishing as a contender in Cy Young voting (ninth in 2019, fourth in 2021) before needing Tommy John surgery in 2022. He returned in 2024 but posted a 5.38 ERA. He did contribute in the postseason, tossing 15 innings with a 3.60 ERA, including recording the final outs in Game Five against the Yankees.
Despite the playoff moments, Boston’s evaluation led to a change. The Red Sox pushed for improvement in 2025, but results did not meet expectations. Buehler moved to a long-relief role late in the season, making one extended appearance on Sunday before the decision to cut him loose. The move opens the door for another organization to claim a veteran starter, though the timeline is nuanced by waivers and prorated salary considerations.
If Buehler clears waivers, Boston would remain responsible for the remaining salary, while any new team would assume the prorated major league minimum portion. Contending clubs in need of rotation depth could be tempted to take a look at a pitcher with his pedigree and postseason experience, even if the current performance suggested a more limited role.
For Boston, the standings remain solid as they head into the final weeks of the season. The Red Sox are 75-60, 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays in the American League East, hold the top Wild Card spot, and sit 5.5 games clear of the Royals for the top non-playoff slot. In the push for the postseason, Garrett Crochet is viewed as the clear ace, supported by Lucas Giolito, Brayan Bello, and Dustin May. Payton Tolle will get a chance to prove himself, with Kyle Harrison on standby in Triple-A if needed.
In the short term, Boston will monitor how the rest of the pitching staff performs down the stretch and how Tolle fits into the roster dynamics. Buehler’s next destination remains uncertain, with potential free-agent interest depending on how the waiver process unfolds and whether he lands with a team seeking a versatile arm for a late-summer run.
Summary: The Red Sox released Walker Buehler, optioned Jhostynxon García, and recalled Nick Sogard to make room for Payton Tolle, signaling a shift as Boston heads toward the postseason push. The rotation remains led by Crochet, with Giolito, Bello, and May in support, while Buehler eyes his next opportunity elsewhere. This move provides Tolle with an opportunity to debut in the big leagues and gives the Sox flexibility down the stretch.
Additional notes for readers:
– Watch the waiver process timeline to see if Buehler changes teams before September.
– If he clears waivers, he could contribute to another club in need of rotation depth.
– Payton Tolle’s call-up is a notable test for the organization’s depth and continued player development in a busy September schedule.