With the MLB trade deadline on the horizon, the trade winds and rumors will be swirling around several teams, including the Boston Red Sox.
The Red Sox have gone through their series of ups and downs this season, but are only three games out of the final wildcard spot in the American League. That said, these next few weeks will determine if they will be buyers or sellers.
Speaking of trades, a former Red Sox relief pitcher whom Boston acquired at the deadline last summer was just sent packing by his new team with the calendar about to flip to July.
Ex-Red Sox Reliever Luis Garcia DFA’d by World Series Contender
On Sunday, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced that they designated former Red Sox hurler Luis Garcia for assignment.
The Dodgers recalled RHP Noah Davis and designated RHP Luis Garcia for assignment.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 29, 2025
In a corresponding move, L.A. called up right-handed pitcher Noah Davis, who signed a minor league deal this offseason with Boston. He didn't end up playing a game for the team, though, as the Red Sox traded Davis to the Dodgers for cash considerations at the beginning of the season.
As for Garcia, the 38-year-old reliever has struggled on the mound this season in LA. He has a 5.27 ERA across 28 appearances out of the bullpen. Opponents are hitting .312 at the plate off Garcia and have a .391 BABIP.
With the right-handed pitcher getting DFA’d, the Dodgers will have a week to trade him or hope he can clear waivers. However, given his MLB experience, Garcia can turn down an assignment and head into free agency.
Garcia joined the Dodgers this offseason on a one-year, $1.5 million minor league deal after a disappointing stint with the Red Sox.
As previously mentioned, the Red Sox acquired the veteran reliever last summer in a trade with the Los Angeles Angels.
Boston gave up four players for Garcia, which turned out to be a horrible gamble. He posted an 8.22 ERA across 15 appearances out of the bullpen. Garcia allowed 24 hits, 14 earned runs (four home runs), a walk, and only recorded 13 strikeouts in 15.1 innings pitched.
We’ll see if the ex-Red Sox reliever can get back on track, whether in the Dodgers’ minor league system or with a new team.