Red Sox Transactions: Boston Sets Roster With Notable IL Move

The Red Sox open their 2025 season on Thursday in Texas, and before the first pitch could be thrown, Boston had to set its roster.

The club has done that, and in the process, it made some notable roster moves. Most of those were expected, but one that does stand out revolves around veteran reliever Liam Hendriks, who will start the season on the injured list with right elbow inflammation.

Hendriks had been in the running for the closer job, but Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced earlier this week that the role will belong to Aroldis Chapman. Assuming Hendriks’ arm issue isn’t major, the IL stint — retroactive to March 24 — will give him a chance to build up his arm strength as he works his way back from undergoing Tommy John surgery in August 2023.

Also starting the season on the IL, less surprisingly, is right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito. He suffered a hamstring injury earlier in the spring and is also on his way back from Tommy John.

With Hendriks and Giolito both going to the IL, relievers Cooper Criswell and Brennan Bernandino officially make the cut and are with the team in Texas for the opener.

The Red Sox also made official that infielder Kristian Campbell and pitcher Sean Newcomb made the club.

The other injured list announcements were expected or previously revealed.

Injured list moves
— OF Mastaka Yoshida (shoulder, 10-day retroactive to March 24)
— SP Brayan Bello (shoulder, 15-day retroactive to March 24)
— SP Kutter Crawford (knee, 15-day retroactive to March 24)
— SP Lucas Giolito (hamstring, 15-day retroactive to March 24)
— RP Liam Hendriks (elbow, 15-day retroactive to March 24)
— RP Chris Murphy (elbow, 60-day)
— RP Zach Penrod (elbow, 60-day)

The Red Sox also optioned Nick Sogard to Triple-A Worcester.