The Boston Red Sox have added another veteran pitcher to their depth, signing right-handed reliever to a minor league deal. Though he won’t be in major league camp as a non-roster invitee, he will report to minor league camp, aiming to stay healthy and contribute in 2025.
At 32, has dealt with numerous injuries throughout his career but has shown impressive potential when healthy. He spent the 2024 season with the Yankees, earning a spot on the Opening Day roster and posting a strong 1.86 ERA over 9 2/3 innings across 12 appearances. However, his underlying numbers were concerning, with a 5.44 FIP, nine walks, and two hit batters, leading to a 24.4% walk and hit-by-pitch rate that overshadowed his solid ERA.
His fastball remains a major asset, reaching up to 97.7 mph last season, but durability has been his biggest obstacle. A former second-round pick out of Louisville, he has undergone two Tommy John surgeries (2017, 2020) and had thoracic outlet syndrome surgery in 2019. His 2023 season was largely derailed by an emergency appendectomy, and a hip injury in 2024 limited him to just 9 2/3 MLB innings and 17 Triple-A innings.
Nick Burdi looks to get a fresh start with the Red Sox
Over parts of five major league seasons with the Pirates, Cubs, and Yankees, Nick Burdi has logged 25 innings, posting a 6.48 ERA. While he boasts an impressive 32.5% strikeout rate, his 16.4% walk rate remains a concern. Despite his inconsistency, the Red Sox see promise in his powerful arm, especially if he can refine his command.
Burdi is expected to begin the season with Triple-A Worcester, where he’ll have a chance to prove himself as a reliable bullpen depth piece. The Red Sox have already brought in veteran relievers Adam Ottavino and Matt Moore as non-roster invitees, and Burdi’s addition further strengthens their pitching depth.
If he can stay healthy and improve his control, Burdi could emerge as a bullpen option for Boston later in the season. However, given his past command issues, he’ll need to show significant progress before earning a big league opportunity. His signing represents a low-risk move for the Red Sox as they continue reinforcing their pitching staff ahead of the 2025 season.