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Monday marked a significant date on the Major League Baseball offseason calendar, as teams faced the deadline to finalize option decisions and set their 40-man rosters. The Boston Red Sox, still needing to comply, made a move that affected a popular player.
According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com, the Red Sox designated right-handed pitcher Zack Kelly for assignment. Cotillo reported that Kelly, who is out of minor-league options for the first time in 2027 and is arbitration-eligible, is likely to attract interest from other clubs given his past performance and pitch repertoire. The Red Sox could also explore a minor trade involving him in the coming days.
For Kelly, this development is a tough break. The 30-year-old made his major league debut with Boston in 2022 after spending five years in the minor leagues. He originally signed with the Oakland Athletics as an undrafted free agent in 2017 for a $500 bonus and later bounced between the Athletics and Los Angeles Angels before joining the Red Sox organization in 2021.
Kelly impressed in his first big-league stint, posting a 3.95 ERA over 13 appearances. His best season came in 2024, when he recorded a 3.97 ERA in 49 games. In 2026, he pitched in only 17 major league games with a 3.31 ERA, spending time in the minors and dealing with injuries.
Despite his underdog status, Kelly became a fan favorite in Boston. Now, he is available to other teams. Clubs can place a waiver claim on him, and if claimed, he would leave the organization. A trade also remains possible. At minimum, the designation removes him from the 40-man roster, but he could remain in the organization if he clears waivers, is outrighted to the minors, and does not elect free agency.
For now, Kelly is off the 40-man roster, but his story is far from over. Further developments are expected in the coming days.