Red Sox Option Right-Hander, Activate Jordan Hicks From IL

The Boston Red Sox made a flurry of roster moves ahead of the team’s series opener against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday.

First, the team activated rookie infielder Marcelo Mayer off the bereavement list and optioned Nick Sogard to Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding move. Mayer had been away from the team for an allotted three days to handle personal matters over the weekend.

Before the game, the Red Sox activated right-hander Jordan Hicks from his rehab assignment and optioned fellow right-hander Zack Kelly to Worcester to open up a roster spot. Hicks, who was acquired from the San Francisco Giants as part of the Rafael Devers trade on June 15 will pitch out of the Red Sox bullpen in high-leverage situations.

Kelly, who has appeared in 17 games for the Red Sox this season, owns a record of 1-3 with a 5.56 ERA and a 1.5 WHIP. He allowed 14 earned runs in 22 2/3 innings this season while making all of his appearances out of the bullpen.

He last pitched on Sunday during the Red Sox’s 5-3 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays, allowing two hits, one walk, and one earned run, in addition to hitting a batter during his one inning of work in the fifth. He has appeared in 87 games with Boston since making his big league debut during the 2022 season.

The Red Sox will begin a three-games series against the Reds on Monday with Garrett Crochet (7-4) opposing Chase Burns.