The Boston Red Sox have been one of the American League's most inconsistent teams throughout the early 2025 MLB season. Things have only worsened with each passing week, proven by a 5-10 record in the Red Sox's last 15 games, which includes the four-game losing streak they're currently riding into Wednesday's finale with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Looking to shake up the clubhouse vibes, the Red Sox made a roster move on Tuesday by trading struggling left-handed pitcher Sean Newcomb to the Athletics for cash considerations. The move occurred only a few days after Boston designated the 31-year-old southpaw for assignment.
Although some players have to fight for opportunities with their new club after a trade, that isn't the case for the former Boston hurler.
Former Red Sox LHP Sean Newcomb Added to Athletics' Roster
Less than 24 hours after the trade, the Athletics have added Newcomb's contract to their 26-man roster. According to Sactown Sports 1140 AM's Frankie Cartoscelli, right-handed reliever Michel Otañez has been optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas to make room for the former Red Sox veteran.
It'll be up to Newcomb to prove that the Athletics were right to roll the dice on him. The Brockton, MA native spent the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the A's following stops with the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs, going 2-1 with a 4.32 ERA and 24 strikeouts across 25 innings in 14 appearances (2 starts).
After signing with the team in January, Newcomb opened the 2025 campaign in the Red Sox's rotation. Unfortunately, it didn't take long for the wheels to fall off. He went 0-3 with a 4.43 ERA in his first five starts before being moved to the bullpen, leading to his pitching to a 3.38 ERA in 18 2/3 innings across seven relief appearances.
While the bullpen move seemed to work at first, Newcomb reverted to his old ways in the blink of an eye. The former 2014 first-rounder surrendered two homers and five earned runs on eight hits with five walks allowed in his last three outings (7 2/3 innings), serving as the fuel behind the trade that sent him back to the Athletics.
Considering how Otañez owned a putrid 13.50 ERA in six relief appearances before being optioned, it's easy to see why the Athletics would view Newcomb as a potential upgrade. Whether or not he can play well enough to stick with the A's long enough to face the Red Sox five times in September remains to be seen, though.
For now, Red Sox fans wish Newcomb all the best luck with his new endeavors.