Former Highly Ranked Red Sox Prospect Returns To Action

Boston Red Sox prospect Shane Drohan has had a long, winding journey through professional baseball.

Once a highly rated prospect, Drohan was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 2023 Rule-5 draft, but returned to the Red Sox after being removed from the White Sox 40-man roster in June 2024. He dealt with shoulder injuries while with the White Sox and never made his major league debut.

Drohan began 2025 with Triple-A Worcester and made seven appearances before going on the injured list with forearm inflammation. Prior to the injury, Drohan looked like a promotion candidate. In 26 2/3 innings, he registered a 2.03 ERA and a gaudy 35.2% strikeout rate. Walks, however, have been a concern through his career. He walked 10.2% of the Triple-A hitters he faced this season.

Drohan started a rehab assignment on Monday with High-A Greenville. He threw two innings, allowed one run, struck out five and walked three on 46 pitches. If he progresses well, he could be a depth option for the Red Sox late in the season.

His fastball has been excellent this season. He averages about 94 mph and gets solid vertical movement on the pitch from a fairly low release, given his size. His 22.3% swinging strike rate with the pitch is off the charts.

He also features a changeup that’s performed well in the minor leagues, as well as a slider, cutter and curveball.

The Red Sox will be careful with Drohan due to his lengthy injury history. He also requires a 40-man roster spot to pitch in the major leagues. Boston might be tempted to get a look at Drohan in the majors, as his proximity to the majors makes him a candidate to be selected in the Rule-5 draft again, should he not be on the 40-man roster.