Former Red Sox Pitcher Re-Signs With Top National League Contender
An old friend appears to have found a consistent home
Moves are starting to get made across the majors in free agency. While the Boston Red Sox haven’t done much of note to this point, they did watch one of their old friends find a nice new contract after his first consistent stretch of action in the majors in 2025.
That player would be left-handed relief pitcher Kyle Hart. Initially selected by the Red Sox in the 2016 MLB Draft, Hart spent time in Boston’s farm system until 2022. He has since spent time with the Seattle Mariners and Philadelphia Phillies’ minor league systems before landing with the San Diego Padres.
After not having pitched in the majors since 2020, Hart carved out a role for himself with San Diego last season. Now, he’s earned himself a new deal with the Padres, as he put pen to paper on a one-year contract with the team.
“Welcome back to San Diego, Kyle! We have signed left-handed pitcher Kyle Hart to a one-year contract through the 2026 season with a club option for 2027,” the team announced in a post on X.
Hart wasn’t all that effective for San Diego, as he posted a 3-3 record with an ugly 5.86 ERA. He does have the versatility to be used in several different roles, though, as he started six games for the Padres, while also finishing a pair out of the bullpen.
When he’s matched up against lefties, Hart is at his best, and you can bet San Diego will look to utilize him in advantageous matchups now that he’s back in town. As for Boston, it will aim to add to its pitching staff this offseason as well, with reports indicating that it could swing another blockbuster trade for a No. 2 starter.
