Red Sox to Shut Down Newly Acquired Pitcher for Over a Month

Boston's rotation depth will be tested as Johan Oviedo recovers from a flexor strain.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:26pm

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The Boston Red Sox have announced that they will shut down starting pitcher Johan Oviedo, acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the offseason, for at least six weeks as he recovers from a flexor strain. This is a tough blow for the Red Sox, who were hoping Oviedo would contribute to their starting rotation this season.

Why it matters

The Red Sox have dealt with some early-season struggles in their starting rotation, and this injury to Oviedo will further test their pitching depth. However, the team is fortunate to have several capable starters waiting in the wings, including Garrett Crochet, Sonny Gray, Ranger Suarez, and Bryan Bello.

The details

Oviedo made one start for the Red Sox this season, allowing four earned runs in 3.2 innings. He had also struggled in spring training, posting a 4.91 ERA in five appearances. The Red Sox are hopeful that rest will help calm down the flexor strain, but Oviedo will be shut down from throwing for at least six weeks.

  • On April 8, 2026, the Red Sox announced that Oviedo will be shut down for at least six weeks.

The players

Johan Oviedo

A starting pitcher acquired by the Boston Red Sox from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the offseason, who is now sidelined for at least six weeks due to a flexor strain.

Garrett Crochet

One of the Red Sox's starting pitchers who will help fill the void left by Oviedo's injury.

Sonny Gray

Another Red Sox starting pitcher who will contribute to the rotation while Oviedo is out.

Ranger Suarez

A Red Sox starting pitcher who has dealt with some early-season struggles but will be counted on to step up.

Bryan Bello

A Red Sox starting pitcher who will be part of the team's rotation depth as Oviedo recovers.

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What they’re saying

“Johan Oviedo has a flexor strain and will be shut down for six weeks from throwing, Alex Cora says. They're hoping rest will calm it down.”

— Chris Cotillo, Reporter, MassLive.com

What’s next

The Red Sox will monitor Oviedo's progress during his six-week shutdown and hope he can return to the rotation in the coming months.

The takeaway

While the loss of Oviedo is a setback for the Red Sox, the team's starting pitching depth should help them weather this injury. The Red Sox have several capable starters ready to step up and fill the void, showcasing the team's strength in an area that has been a weakness for many other MLB clubs.