Red Sox Rumors: Pitcher Signs New Deal After Opting Out Of Boston Contract

Brad Keller won’t be leaving the Red Sox organization after all.

Multiple reports Tuesday indicated Keller exercised his right to hit MLB free agency after Boston optioned him to Triple-A on Sunday. But in a follow-up report, SoxProspects’ Chris Hatfield revealed Keller re-signed with the Red Sox on a minor-league contract after turning down the option. The right-hander was in the Worcester Red Sox’s clubhouse Wednesday, per MLB.com’s Chris Henrique.

Keller signed a major league deal with Boston in late May after the Chicago White Sox designated him for assignment. Primarily a starting pitcher in the first six seasons of his MLB career, the 29-year-old was used exclusively out of the bullpen by Alex Cora and company. Keller appeared in 10 games for the Red Sox before opting out of his last deal, logging a 5.66 ERA with 17 strikeouts over 20 2/3 total innings.

The former Kansas City Royal wasn’t the only pitcher optioned by the Red Sox on Sunday, as Brennan Bernardino also was demoted. In corresponding moves, Boston activated starter Brayan Bello from the injured list and selected the contract of left-hander Chase Shugart.

Keller joined the WooSox on an eventful day, as two of the Red Sox’s “big three” prospects — Roman Anthony and Kyle Teel — made their Triple-A debuts.