The Los Angeles Dodgers traded starting pitcher Dustin May to the Boston Red Sox just before the trade deadline, focusing on May’s preference to remain a starter. In exchange, the Dodgers acquired two prospects from Boston: James Tibbs II, ranked as the Red Sox’s fifth-best prospect, and Zach Ehrhard, who holds the 27th spot in their prospect list.
Changing Pitching Staff Influences Dodgers’ Decision
Dustin May’s move comes as the Dodgers adjust their pitching rotation with the imminent returns of Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell. These roster shifts reduced May’s odds of securing a postseason role, motivating the Dodgers to consider trading him ahead of his free agency at season’s end. Although the team debated transitioning May to a bullpen role, his strong desire to continue as a starting pitcher weighed heavily on the decision.
Team Leadership Reflects on Exchange and Player Preferences
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes shared insight into the respectful discussions leading to the trade.
We had a lot of really respectful conversations with D-May,
Gomes said.
He’s been a huge part of the organization for a long time. Through those conversations, it was apparent that starting was very important to him.
The Dodgers ultimately honored May’s wish to stay in the starting rotation by facilitating a trade rather than converting him to a reliever role.
Dustin May’s Injury Challenges and Current Performance Profile
May’s career has been interrupted by several injuries, limiting him to only 20 starts between 2022 and 2024. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2021 and flexor tendon surgery in 2023, he also faced a rare and critical esophageal repair surgery last summer. Despite missing all of the 2024 season, May returned this year and has shown resilience, pitching in 19 games with a 4.85 ERA and recording a career-best 97 strikeouts.
Earlier in the season, the Dodgers leaned on May as they managed rotation injuries, but the healthy returns of Glasnow, Snell, and Shohei Ohtani allowed the team to finalize the trade.
New Opportunities Await May with the Red Sox
Moving to Boston, May will reconnect with former Dodgers teammate Walker Buehler, who was instrumental in the 2024 World Series victory. The Red Sox currently face difficulties with several starters sidelined on the 60-day injured list, providing May with the chance to secure a full-time starting role. This transition highlights the Dodgers’ respect for May’s career goals and their commitment to shaping a roster that aligns with player ambitions.
Impact on Both Clubs and Future Prospects
This trade signifies a pivotal moment for both teams. For the Dodgers, acquiring highly regarded prospects Tibbs and Ehrhard supports their long-term pitching depth. For May and the Red Sox, the partnership offers a fresh start and the possibility of stabilizing Boston’s rotation amid ongoing injury struggles. The move also underlines the Dodgers’ willingness to accommodate their players’ developmental paths while maintaining competitive balance.