Red Sox Rumors: Two Notable Pitchers Don’t Make Opening Day Cut

The Boston Red Sox are close to finalizing their bullpen for Opening Day.

Adam Ottavino and Matt Moore have been told they won’t be making the trip to Texas, according to Julian McWilliams of The Boston Globe. Boston also made the same decision with Michael Fulmer, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, who confirmed the former report.

What does that mean?

Red Sox manager Alex Cora confirmed that five relievers are locks to make the team: Aroldis Chapman, Justin Wilson, Justin Slaten, Garrett Whitlock and Liam Hendriks, per Cotillo. Boston has three spots remaining for five others: Brennan Bernardino, Cooper Criswell, Zack Kelly, Bryan Mata and Greg Weissert.

“The final move won’t be today or tomorrow. We’ll wait until the end.” Cora said on Saturday, per Cotillo. “That’s pitching-wise and position-player-wise. I’m not going to give you guys any more updates on things because we’re not going to make a decision until the end.”

Ottavino and Moore each have the ability to opt out of their contract due to not making the initial roster.

The Red Sox have a litany of roster decisions to make prior to March 27, with 45 players currently vying for 26 spots.

Richard Fitts will be the No. 4 starter in the initial rotation, with Quinn Priester and Sean Newcomb remaining as the candidates for the No. 5 spot. Brayan Bello and Kutter Crawford will begin the season on the injured list.

Who would you like to see make the initial rotation and bullpen? Leave a comment and let us know.