The Boston Red Sox are optioning right-hander Breian Bello to Triple-A Worcester, as reported by WBZ’s Dan Roche. They will add left-handed relief pitcher Joe La Sorsa to the active roster for their series opener in the Bronx.
Bello struggled again, giving up eight runs in five innings against the Orioles, bringing his season ERA to 6.34. He has a low strikeout rate of 15.6% and is allowing 1.48 home runs per nine innings, although his average exit velocity is the lowest in his career. Bello has particularly struggled against left-handed hitters, who are batting .323 against him, while he hasn’t been much better facing righties.
Despite trying to mitigate his performance issues by using a left-handed opener, Bello has been ineffective. After losing a game, he expressed frustration about being labeled as a bullpen pitcher, stating he is a starter and just having a bad season.
This marks Bello’s third season with the Red Sox, following a $55 million contract extension. Although his strikeout rate has improved this season, he has a history of struggles against left-handed batters.
To make room for La Sorsa, the Red Sox must clear a spot on the 40-man roster. They could move Garrett Crochet to the 60-day injured list if his recovery from a minor lat injury doesn’t progress in three weeks.
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