Story by
Red Sox Release 35-Year-Old Reliever Who Just Underwent Season-Ending Surgery
- Story by
- Red Sox Release 35-Year-Old Reliever Who Just Underwent Season-Ending Surgery
Red Sox Release 35-Year-Old Reliever Who Just Underwent Season-Ending Surgery originally appeared on NESN . Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Boston Red Sox are gearing up for opening day, and that means they are making roster moves throughout the organization.
Advertisement
Among the Red Sox's recent moves was the release of veteran reliever Vinny Nittoli . The Red Sox signed Nittoli to a minor league contract in February after he was released by the Baltimore Orioles organization. He has pitched in the big leagues in four separate seasons, but has just 18 2/3 big league innings under his belt.
Nittoli pitched in three spring training games for the Red Sox this offseason, but allowed four earned runs in 2 2/3 innings of work. He underwent internal brace surgery in his right elbow, according to 7News Boston's Ari Alexander on March 12 . He reportedly avoided Tommy John surgery, but is going to miss the entire season.
Nittoli was already a long shot to have a role for the Red Sox, but after his surgery, it made sense for Boston to release him. The journeyman reliever will likely try to pitch in winter ball in hopes of extending his MLB career.
Even though he has spent most of his career in the minor leagues, he has been effective when he's been on the big league mound. He has a 2.41 ERA in 15 games. However, his surgery and age make him a risky addition for any team. He will turn 36 later this year.
More MLB: Red Sox Opening Day Roster 2026: Projected Batting Order, Pitching Rotation, Bullpen & More to Know
