Brayan Bello reinvents his arsenal after trade rumors, fall from top of rotation

Red Sox pitcher looks to add curveball, improve changeup after tough 2024 season

Feb. 12, 2026 at 9:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello is working to reinvent his arsenal this spring, adding a curveball and improving his changeup after a 2024 season that saw him fall down the team's rotation depth chart. Bello, who debuted in 2022, is looking to learn from new teammate Ranger Suárez and build on the progress he made last year, when he struggled at times but also showed flashes of his potential.

Why it matters

Bello was once considered the Red Sox's top pitching prospect, but his development has been uneven so far in the majors. With the addition of Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray to the rotation, Bello finds himself in a battle to hold onto a starting spot. His ability to expand his repertoire and become a more consistent pitcher could be key to him cementing a long-term role in Boston's rotation.

The details

Bello is working to bring back the curveball he had earlier in his career, which would give him an even deeper arsenal to go along with his four-seamer, sinker, cutter, sweeper/slider and changeup. He's also continued to refine his changeup, comparing grips and notes with new teammate Ranger Suárez, who also features a strong changeup. Bello struggled at times last year with the shape and consistency of his breaking pitches, so he's focused on differentiating those offerings. Pitching coach Andrew Bailey has worked with Bello on improving his command and limiting walks.

  • Bello earned the 2024 Opening Day start for the Red Sox.
  • Bello found himself in trade rumors this winter as the Red Sox added Garrett Crochet and Ranger Suárez to the rotation.

The players

Brayan Bello

A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who is working to reinvent his arsenal this spring after a up-and-down 2024 season.

Ranger Suárez

A left-handed pitcher who joined the Red Sox this offseason and has been working with Bello on improving his changeup.

Sonny Gray

A 14-year veteran right-handed pitcher who the Red Sox acquired this offseason and has been impressed by Bello's stuff, including his new curveball.

Garrett Crochet

The Red Sox's new ace, a left-handed pitcher who was added to the rotation this offseason, pushing Bello down the depth chart.

Andrew Bailey

The Red Sox's pitching coach, who has worked with Bello on improving his command and differentiating his breaking pitches.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's gross; I came away with that impression. I saw that he was throwing a curveball. I didn't know that's new. The sinker is disgusting. … For me, it was like, that's just what he does (on the mound). He looked really good today.”

— Sonny Gray, 14-year veteran pitcher

“I'm somebody who always wants to learn and improve, and I was playing catch with (Suárez) and telling him I was trying a new grip on my changeup, asking for some advice on how to release the ball. I feel like with him this year, I'm going to learn a lot from him and the other guys and I'm very excited for this season.”

— Brayan Bello

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.