In a timely move just before the deadline, the Red Sox have bolstered their pitching roster by striking a deal with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Adding depth to their squad, they’ve acquired the seasoned Japanese pitcher Naoyuki Uwasawa, a stalwart of the Nippon Ham Fighters for nine seasons.
Initial reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan broke the news on Twitter, highlighting Boston’s move to secure Uwasawa, who had previously inked a minor league deal with the Rays. Despite a less than stellar spring performance with a 13.03 ERA over four appearances, the Red Sox saw potential in the veteran’s skill set.
While Uwasawa wasn’t immediately slated for the 40-man roster, the Red Sox have options for his placement, considering his extensive experience as a starter. His career stats in Japan, while not flashy, demonstrate his reliability on the mound, with a 3.42 ERA over 1,367.1 innings.
Scouts note Uwasawa’s knack for control and consistency, citing his ability to command the strike zone and mix up pitches effectively. Though not a top-tier prospect like his compatriot Yoshinobu Yamamato, Uwasawa’s track record as an innings eater makes him a valuable addition to the Red Sox’s pitching depth.
With their rotation set for Opening Day, including the likes of Brayan Bello and Nick Pivetta, Uwasawa adds another layer of insurance for the team, especially considering recent injuries to key players like Lucas Giolito. His contract structure, featuring performance bonuses tied to innings pitched, incentivizes both player and team for optimal performance.
As the season unfolds, Uwasawa’s role may evolve, but for now, his arrival shores up the Red Sox’s pitching arsenal, providing much-needed depth and flexibility for the challenges ahead.
