The Boston Red Sox bullpen is shaping up to be highly competitive this spring training, and the team added to the mix on Sunday by signing veteran reliever Matt Moore to a minor league deal, along with a non-roster invite to spring training.
Moore wasted no time making an impact, throwing a bullpen session the very same day. Though the 35-year-old lefty is past his prime, his 13 years of major league experience carry significant value.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora praised Moore’s experience, noting, “Just another experienced guy that is going to compete for a spot. He had a great season a few years ago. He understands what he needs to do.
Physically, he looks great, just like Adam (Ottavino), just another adult in the room. They’ve been there for a while in this grind, and they understand what it takes. Where we are as a team now, experience comes into play.”
While the Red Sox appear to have two lefty relievers—Aroldis Chapman and Justin Wilson—set for the Opening Day roster, the third lefty spot remains up for grabs. Along with Moore, players like Brennan Bernardino, Zach Penrod, Jovani Moran, and Sean Newcomb are all vying for that spot.
Moore made 51 relief appearances for the Los Angeles Angels last season, posting a 5.03 ERA. However, as Cora pointed out, Moore is not far removed from a dominant stretch.
In 2022 and 2023, Moore revitalized his career, pitching for the Texas Rangers, Miami Marlins, Cleveland Guardians, and Angels. Over those two seasons, he posted a 10-3 record with a 2.20 ERA, 1.168 WHIP, and struck out 143 batters in 126 2/3 innings.
Red Sox fans are familiar with Moore from his early career, as he debuted with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011 and spent parts of six seasons with the team. The Red Sox will be Moore’s ninth major league organization.
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