The Boston Red Sox entered this offseason intending to strengthen their pitching staff and finally started tackling said goal.
In the wake of news that Chris Sale was traded to the Atlanta Braves, the Red Sox’s next transaction involved picking up a depth option with some big-league experience under his belt.
The Red Sox announced on social media on Tuesday that they claimed right-hander Max Castillo off waivers from the Kansas City Royals.
Castillo posted a 4.58 ERA with a 94-to-28 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .257 batting average against and a 1.25 WHIP in 116 innings pitched across 22 games for the Triple-A Omaha Storm Chasers.
The righty also had a 4.43 ERA in the seven games he pitched for the Royals, all out of the bullpen.
The 24-year-old will likely start in the minor leagues playing for the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox and be called up to Boston on an as-needed basis for the time being.
Although this addition will add minor-league depth, Castillo will take the final spot on the 40-man roster.
Last week’s signing of Lucas Giolito has not been made official by the club, meaning we’ll have to see some movement on the roster in the near future.
