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Red Sox announce roster move for Yankees matchup
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- Red Sox announce roster move for Yankees matchup
After a 32-46 start to the 2026 MLB season, the Boston Red Sox have had an incredible past two months. The run started with a sweep over their arch rival New York Yankees in late June at Fenway Park.
Now close to pulling even with the Yankees in the standings, the Red Sox finally get another shot at them in late August. The teams will play four over the weekend at Yankee Stadium, with New York having grabbed the victory in game one Friday 1-0.
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The series continues Saturday with a doubleheader starting at 1:05 p.m. and the second game at 7:15 p.m. Both times ET. Prior to these games getting underway, the Red Sox have announced some roster moves.
Most importantly, high-leverage reliever Garrett Whitlock will be reinstated from the 15-day injured list. Reliever Wyatt Olds is being sent down to Triple-A Worcester while left-hander Raymond Burgos will be the "27th man."
More on Whitlock
MLB: Baltimore Orioles at Boston Red Sox
Jul 20, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Garrett Whitlock (22) pitches against the Baltimore Orioles during the eighth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
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2026 is Whitlock's sixth year in the show, all with Boston. He has consistently been one of the top arms in their bullpen and that is no different this season, although was sidelined for a couple weeks recently with right elbow inflammation.
In 45 games this season, the 30-year-old has tossed 44 innings. He is 6-1 with a 2.05 ERA, striking out 49 and walking seven. Even in a loaded Red Sox bullpen, he is still a top option.
The 26-year-old Olds has also never been with another organization, but did not crack the majors until his debut this year on Aug. 17. He has pitched six innings, not allowing a run on eight strikeouts and three walks.
MORE: Red Sox make a move after an update on Adley Rutschman
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Burgos and rest of the series
As noted, it will be Burgos taking the extra roster spot for the doubleheader. The rookie has pitched 10 big league innings this season, surrendering three earned runs on five strikeouts and one walk.
The Red Sox are 73-61, third place in the American League East and hold the second Wild Card spot comfortably. The Yankees are 76-58, second place in the American League East and hold the top Wild Card spot.
Both teams are chasing the Tampa Bay Rays, but their minds are more on each other's matchup currently. The season series is split at five games apiece, and these next three will decide who earns the tiebreaker advantage.
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