Why Two-Time Cy Young Winner Ended MLB Career With Red Sox

BOSTON — Corey Kluber dominated the American League for most of the 2010s. The Red Sox knew plenty about that as the right-hander dominated the club in his lone playoff start against them during the 2016 American League Division Series.

Kluber suited up for five teams, including three in the American League East, over his MLB career. His final stop would be with the Red Sox when he signed a one-year deal for the 2023 season. Not only did the Red Sox value his veteran experience, they named him the Opening Day starter in efforts to protect Chris Sale to start the season.

The two-time American League Cy Young award winner reflected on why he joined the Red Sox at that point in his career.

“There’s obviously stuff that speaks for itself,” Kluber told NESN.com Friday at the Pedro Martinez Foundation gala. “The history, Fenway, all that kind of stuff. Then, being part of an organization that’s looking to win is a big part of it too.”

Kluber made nine starts for the Red Sox in 2023 that turned out to be the final year of his 13-year MLB career. The right-hander also spent time with the Cleveland Guardians, the New York Yankees, the Tampa Bay Rays and the Texas Rangers.