Overview
- The Red Sox reinstated Danny Coulombe and on Sunday optioned left-hander Tyler Samaniego to Triple-A Worcester to open a roster spot.
- Ryan Watson remained on the active roster because he is a Rule 5 draft pick and cannot be sent to the minors without first clearing waivers or being offered back to his previous club.
- Interim manager Chad Tracy said Watson has been used as a bulk reliever who can eat innings, and Watson showed measurable improvement in May with multiple multi-inning outings.
- Samaniego had a 1.04 ERA and began his career with a long scoreless stretch, and he expressed disappointment at the move while the team cited the need to keep optionable pitchers available.
- Commentary criticized the timing of the demotion after a Twins sweep, but that link is presented as analysis rather than a proven cause and the roster choice reflects longer-term roster mechanics governed by Rule 5 constraints.