FORT MYERS, Fla. - The Red Sox delivered a roster surprise Monday night.
The team announced that reliever Brennan Bernardino has been optioned to Triple-A Worcester despite following up a solid 2023 regular season campaign with a very solid spring training.
The 32-year-old didn't give up an earned run over his 6 2/3 innings in Grapefruit League action, striking out six while walking two and allowing three hits. It seemingly carried over from a solid 2023 campaign in which Bernardino finished with a 3.20 ERA over 55 outings.
After the Red Sox' exhibition game in Texas, manager Alex Cora described the decision the "hardest one" to reporters, adding, "“You have to live with it. He’s part of the organization, part of club, we know that. He’s not going to be there in Seattle, but without guarantees, I do believe Bernie is going to contribute here and be a big part of what we’re trying to accomplish."
The move leaves the Red Sox with one lefty (Joely Rodriguez) in their bullpen, with newcomers Greg Weissert and Isaiah Campbell seemingly making the team. The rest of the relieving crew will include rookie Justin Slaten, Chris Martin, Kenley Jansen, Josh Winckowski and newcomer Chase Anderson.
As for the rest of the roster, Bobby Dalbec will serve as a utility player, with Pablo Reyes, Enmanuel Valdez and Ceddanne Rafael all slated to get time at second base while the Sox await the return of Vaughn Grissom. Grissom will spend another couple of weeks in Florida while coming back from a groin injury.