The Boston Red Sox recently signed veteran pitcher Tommy Kahnle, but he won't be starting the season on the major league roster. Instead, Kahnle has been reassigned to the minor league camp, a decision that might surprise some given his recent performances.
Kahnle, now 36, has been a staple in the big leagues since 2014, bringing a wealth of experience to any bullpen. Last season with the Detroit Tigers, he posted a 4.43 ERA over 66 games and was solid in the postseason, allowing just one earned run in 2 1/3 innings. Despite signing with the Red Sox just last week, making the Opening Day roster was always going to be a challenge.
Kahnle's preparation was ahead of the curve, thanks to his participation in the World Baseball Classic with Team Israel. There, he showcased his skills by allowing just one hit and no runs over two innings. He continued to impress in spring training, pitching a scoreless inning and recording a strikeout.
With 436 2/3 innings of major league experience, Kahnle is a valuable asset for the Red Sox bullpen. The big question is when he’ll be back in the majors.
According to insider insights, the Red Sox might bring him up before May 1, a key date due to the opt-out clause in his contract. This clause allows him to leave for another team offering a major league spot if not promoted by then.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora has already seen promising signs from Kahnle. "I saw a good pitcher the other day throwing 94, 95 mph with a good changeup," Cora noted, reflecting the confidence in Kahnle's abilities.
If Kahnle continues to perform well, expect to see him back on the big league mound soon, potentially before the critical May 1 deadline. His experience and skill set could be just what the Red Sox need as they navigate the early part of the season.