After spending 23 days on the injured list with shoulder bursitis, Walker Buehler has been activated by the Red Sox for his May 20 start against the Mets.
So far this season, Buehler holds a 4.28 ERA with 19 strikeouts and nine walks across 33.2 innings. His performance has improved steadily, especially after a rough outing against the Cardinals early in the season. Before being sidelined on April 29, he had posted a 3.68 ERA over five April starts.
To make room for Buehler’s return, Boston is parting ways with reliever Nick Burdi. According to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, Burdi has cleared out his locker, although the team hasn’t made the move official yet.
Burdi had impressed since signing a minor league deal with Boston before the 2024 season. He dominated in Triple-A Worcester, allowing just one run in 16.2 innings with 25 strikeouts. Called up on May 16, he tossed two scoreless outings against the Braves.
Despite his strong performance, the Red Sox had limited options for clearing roster space. While relievers Garrett Whitlock and Greg Weissert have options remaining, both are key contributors to the bullpen. Depth starter Hunter Dobbins, who has already been optioned this season, has also been effective with a 3.62 ERA over six starts.
Burdi’s short stint with Boston was impressive, and he’s likely to draw interest from other teams. Meanwhile, the Red Sox are counting on Buehler, one of the more experienced arms on their staff, to bring stability to the rotation starting with his matchup against the Mets, a team he previously shut out in the NLCS.
