The Boston Red Sox didn't just introduce their new star player Wednesday. They also announced their first round of spring training roster cuts.
Infielder Jeter Downs and pitchers Bryan Mata, Connor Seabold, Josh Winckowski and Jay Groome were optioned to Triple-A Worcester.
First baseman Triston Casas, infielders David Hamilton and Christian Koss, and pitchers Durbin Feltman, Brian Keller and Chris Murphy were reassigned to minor league camp.
These roster moves added to a busy day at JetBlue Park, where the Red Sox on Wednesday morning held a press conference to introduce Trevor Story, who signed a six-year contract with Boston
Of course, it's possible several of these players will factor into Boston's major league plans at some point this season. But Opening Day is just two weeks from Thursday, and the Red Sox thus took their first significant step toward finalizing the roster they'll break camp with in 2022.
The Red Sox shortly after Wednesday's cuts announced they've agreed to terms with 19 players -- including a few of the aforementioned names -- on one-year contracts for 2022. The list is below.
Catchers: Ronaldo Hernández, Connor Wong
Outfielders: Jarren Duran, Jeisson Rosario
Infielders: Jonathan Araúz, Bobby Dalbec, Jeter Downs, Hudson Potts
Pitchers: Eduard Bazardo, Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, Austin Davis, Jay Groome, Darwinzon Hernandez, Bryan Mata, Connor Seabold, Phillips Valdez, Garrett Whitlock, Josh Winckowski
Boston renewed the contract of pitcher Tanner Houck for the 2022 season, as well. Houck, who worked as both a starter and a reliever in 2021, is expected to begin the new campaign in Boston's rotation.
The Red Sox are scheduled to open their regular season April 7 against the New York Yankees in the Bronx. They'll play three games against the Yankees and three games against the Detroit Tigers before returning to Fenway Park for their home opener against the Minnesota Twins on April 15.
