Overview
- Kahnle, who activated the contract clause Friday, can now be signed directly to another club’s 26-man roster if that team commits to carrying him.
- Under the clause, Boston must select him to its 40-man roster within a short window or allow him to join a team that offers an immediate major-league spot.
- The 36-year-old has a 3.24 ERA in 8 1/3 innings at Triple-A Worcester with eight strikeouts and no home runs allowed, building on a long MLB track record as a changeup specialist.
- Boston’s bullpen has been a team strength but has few optionable arms, which makes adding another non-optionable reliever a tight roster squeeze.
- The timing is pressing with Garrett Crochet on the injured list, several clubs seeking relief help, and a June 1 opt-out that lets Kahnle leave if he still is not promoted.