As the MLB trade deadline passed, the Boston Red Sox tagged Dustin May as their key starting pitcher acquisition, a move that surprised some given May’s checkered history. Formerly a top Dodgers prospect and the youngest Opening Day starter in almost four decades in 2020, May has struggled to establish consistent success following multiple Tommy John surgeries. The Red Sox are betting that this move can finally lead to a turning point for May’s career amid their rotation needs.
May debuted in the major leagues in 2019 but has only managed 34 starts and pitched just under 192 innings across six seasons, a frustratingly low total for a potential frontline starter. The Red Sox’s decision recalls last year’s deadline acquisition of James Paxton from the Dodgers, who made just two starts before a calf injury sidelined him indefinitely.
Overview of Dustin May’s Recent Performance and Health Challenges
In the 2025 season, May’s first fully healthy year in some time, his performance has not met expectations. He carries a 6-7 record with a 4.85 ERA and a 1.34 WHIP, figures that reflect inconsistency and missed opportunities. The Dodgers were willing to part with him after a season marred by disappointment, and now Boston must hope he can rebound under new circumstances.
Despite mixed feelings among the fanbase, May remains the sole starting pitcher the Red Sox’s front office, including Craig Breslow, was able to secure at this deadline. The challenge now is for May to find a rhythm and generate the breakthrough the team desperately needs.
Mark your calendars: May’s Red Sox debut is projected for Wednesday against the Kansas City Royals.
Adjustment in Rotation Timing to Preserve Lucas Giolito’s Schedule
Initially slated to start Sunday’s series finale against the Houston Astros, May’s debut was postponed by the Red Sox coaching staff. Manager Alex Cora and the team preferred maintaining the established routine of Sunday starter Lucas Giolito, avoiding excessive off-days and potential disruption to his pitching flow.
Dustin May’s Red Sox debut will be Wednesday against the Royals, Alex Cora said. They pushed him back from the originally scheduled Sunday because it would have meant too many days off for Lucas Giolito,
—Tim Healey, Globe
Garrett Crochet will pitch Tuesday, Alex Cora said. (And Brayan Bello on Monday.)
—Tim Healey, Globe
This adjustment reflects the team’s effort to balance integrating May without unsettling other starters in a rotation already grappling with injuries and question marks.
Areas for Improvement in May’s Approach and Red Sox Pitching Depth Concerns
Dustin May’s success largely hinges on reducing his walk rate, which currently stands at 3.7 walks per nine innings—one of the highest among MLB starters. Statistical splits show when May limits walks to two or fewer in a game, his ERA improves to 4.01. However, allowing three walks or more causes his ERA to surge to 5.91, illustrating the significant impact control issues have on his effectiveness.
The Red Sox’s urgent need for reliable pitching is underscored by the absence of three key rotation members for the remainder of the season: Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, and Hunter Dobbins. Meanwhile, depth options such as Kyle Harrison and Richard Fitts have yet to inspire confidence as consistent starters, increasing the pressure on May’s performance.
On a brighter note, Cooper Criswell has delivered a standout effort recently, pitching seven innings of one-run baseball during Boston’s dramatic walk-off victory over Houston. Criswell’s strong outing offers some assurance to a pitching staff facing considerable challenges as the season progresses.