Red Sox Sign Lefty Reliever Danny Coulombe to One-Year Deal

Boston adds veteran southpaw to bolster bullpen, moves Romy Gonzalez to 60-day IL

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:34am

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The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a one-year, $1 million major-league contract with left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe. To make room on the roster, the team has moved infielder Romy Gonzalez to the 60-day injured list as he continues to deal with left shoulder soreness. Coulombe, 36, posted a 2.30 ERA and 3.30 FIP across 55 appearances with the Twins and Rangers last season.

Why it matters

The Red Sox have been thin on left-handed relievers outside of closer Aroldis Chapman, so the addition of Coulombe helps bolster the backend of their bullpen. Gonzalez's placement on the 60-day IL means he will not be eligible to return until early June, opening up a utility role on the Opening Day roster.

The details

Coulombe, who has also spent time with the Orioles, held right-handed hitters to a .188 average and .614 OPS last season, while limiting lefties to a .225 average and .526 OPS. However, his 2025 campaign was interrupted by injuries, including a left forearm strain and left shoulder fatigue. To make room for Coulombe, the Red Sox moved Gonzalez to the 60-day IL as he continues to recover from left shoulder soreness.

  • Coulombe agreed to a one-year, $1 million deal with the Red Sox on March 12, 2026.
  • Gonzalez was moved to the 60-day IL, meaning he will not be eligible to return until early June 2026.

The players

Danny Coulombe

A 36-year-old left-handed reliever who has spent time with the Twins, Rangers, and Orioles.

Romy Gonzalez

An infielder for the Red Sox who is dealing with left shoulder soreness and was moved to the 60-day injured list.

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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 move by the Red Sox highlights their efforts to strengthen their bullpen, particularly on the left-handed side, as they prepare for the upcoming season. Gonzalez's extended absence due to injury also opens up an opportunity for other utility players to make the Opening Day roster.