Red Sox Face Two-Man Battle for Final Rotation Spot

Former Pirates pitcher Johan Oviedo may have edge over Patrick Sandoval

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Boston Red Sox have an open competition for the fifth spot in their starting rotation, with right-hander Johan Oviedo and left-hander Patrick Sandoval as the top contenders. Oviedo, acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in an offseason trade, has impressed in spring training and may have the edge over Sandoval, who is still recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2024.

Why it matters

The Red Sox are looking to solidify their starting rotation after naming Garrett Crochet the Opening Day starter. The battle for the fifth spot is important as the team aims to build a strong pitching staff to compete in the AL East.

The details

Oviedo, a 6-foot-6 right-hander, posted a 3.57 ERA and struck out 42 batters in 40.1 innings for the Pirates last season. He has been wowing the Red Sox with his stuff in spring training. Sandoval, a left-hander, is further behind in his recovery from Tommy John surgery and may start the season on the injured list, opening the door for Oviedo to claim the fifth rotation spot.

  • The Red Sox opened spring training in March 2026.
  • Oviedo was acquired by the Red Sox in a trade with the Pirates in December 2025.
  • Sandoval underwent Tommy John surgery in the summer of 2024.

The players

Johan Oviedo

A 6-foot-6 right-handed pitcher acquired by the Red Sox from the Pittsburgh Pirates in an offseason trade.

Patrick Sandoval

A left-handed pitcher for the Red Sox who is recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2024.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

Garrett Crochet

The Red Sox's Opening Day starting pitcher.

Ranger Suarez

A starting pitcher for the Red Sox.

Sonny Gray

A starting pitcher for the Red Sox.

Brayan Bello

A dependable starting pitcher for the Red Sox.

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What they’re saying

“While Oviedo is in camp wowing with stuff, we're all waiting to see veteran Patrick Sandoval pitch after his elbow surgery in 2024.”

— Eno Sarris, Writer (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Red Sox will continue to evaluate Oviedo and Sandoval throughout spring training, with the goal of naming their fifth starter before Opening Day.

The takeaway

The battle for the fifth spot in the Red Sox's rotation is an intriguing one, with the hard-throwing Oviedo potentially having the edge over the veteran Sandoval, who is still recovering from injury. This competition highlights the depth and competition within the Red Sox's pitching staff as they look to build a strong rotation for the 2026 season.