MLB Rumors: Red Sox Acquire Steven Matz From Cardinals

The Boston Red Sox have officially bought.

According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Red Sox acquired Steven Matz from the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday. Matz is a left-handed relief pitcher who is a free agent after the season.

In 54 innings this season, Matz registered a 3.17 ERA. His strikeout rate is fairly average at 21.3%, but his walk rate is excellent at 4.1%. He’s been incredibly successful against lefties, limiting them to a .442 OPS, while righties have posted an .814 OPS.

Matz has primarily worked one to two innings per appearance, though he did go five innings as a starter earlier this year. He’s pitched out of the rotation before, and could be extended for extra innings if necessary.

The Red Sox are currently carrying four lefties in the bullpen. Aroldis Chapman is the closer, while Justin Wilson has been the next highest leverage guy. Brennan Bernardino’s job is likely safe, with Chris Murphy being the odd man out for now.

Boston is sending first baseman Blaze Jordan in return to St. Louis, according to Passan.

Matz is owed $12.5 million this season, though that amount will be prorated for the rest of the season.