The Boston Red Sox announced on Tuesday that they have designated right-handed reliever Jorge Alcala for assignment, replacing him on the major league roster with fellow righty Isaiah Campbell, who was recalled from Triple-A Worcester. This roster move reflects the team’s response to Alcala’s recent difficulties on the mound.
Background on Alcala’s Acquisition and Performance Issues
Boston acquired Jorge Alcala in mid-June through a trade with the Minnesota Twins, sending minor league infielder Andy Lugo back to Minnesota. At the time, Alcala was viewed as a change-of-scenery candidate, as his opportunities had diminished with the Twins after conceding 24 runs in 24 1/3 innings, resulting in an 8.88 ERA. His struggles marked the second time in three seasons with Minnesota that his ERA exceeded 6.00. Despite some solid run prevention numbers in 2024, Alcala struggled significantly with control issues, issuing too many walks and allowing home runs.
Analysis of Alcala’s Time with the Red Sox
While Alcala’s 3.31 ERA with Boston appeared respectable on paper, underlying metrics revealed persistent problems. He continued to allow too many free passes, walking 10.5% of batters faced, and threw three wild pitches. Furthermore, he was hit for four home runs in just 16 1/3 innings, translating to an alarming 2.20 home runs allowed per nine innings. These trends mirrored his earlier challenges with Minnesota and raised concerns for the Red Sox coaching staff.
Recent Performance Decline and Implications
Alcala’s recent outings have been particularly troubling, as he managed only 3 1/3 combined innings in his last five appearances while surrendering six runs (five earned) on eight hits, including four homers, and drawing four walks. In his final game with Boston, he allowed three runs, including two home runs, in just one-third of an inning, prompting the team‘s decisive roster change.
Next Steps for Alcala and Roster Considerations
Following his designation for assignment, Alcala will be placed on waivers for a period of five days, during which he could be outrighted to the minors or released. Given his remaining salary of approximately $435,000 on a $1.5 million contract and the fact that he has exhausted his minor league options, it is unlikely another club will claim him. Any interested team would be required to add him directly to their major league bullpen. Additionally, because Alcala holds over five years of major league service time, he has the right to reject an outright assignment to Worcester and instead elect free agency while still collecting the remainder of his guaranteed salary.