The Boston Red Sox bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring right-hander Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates in a five-player trade on Thursday night. Oviedo, who joins fellow starter Sonny Gray as Boston's second addition this winter, posted a 3.57 ERA in limited action last season. In exchange, Pittsburgh received outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia and pitching prospect Jesus Travieso.
The trade, completed late Thursday, sees the Red Sox receiving Oviedo, minor-league lefty reliever Tyler Samaniego, and catcher Adonys Guzman from the Pirates. Pittsburgh gains Garcia and Travieso in return.
Oviedo, 27, made nine starts last season, compiling a 3.57 ERA (121 ERA+) and a 1.83 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 40 innings. Known for his varied arsenal including two fastballs and breaking balls, Oviedo is expected to compete for a rotation spot in spring training. This marks Boston's second starting pitcher acquisition this offseason, following Sonny Gray.
Garcia, turning 23 soon, is regarded as a top 100 prospect by some outlets and nicknamed "The Password." He appeared in seven major-league games in 2025, going 1 for 7, while showcasing above-average raw power with exit velocities exceeding 110 mph in the minors. However, he has been prone to strikeouts and should get an extended look in Pittsburgh's outfield.
The deal comes amid increased activity ahead of Major League Baseball's 2025 Winter Meetings, set to begin Sunday. While the Red Sox aim to strengthen their rotation, the Pirates continue to reshape their roster with young talent.
Elsewhere in rumors, the Twins do not plan to trade stars like Byron Buxton, Joe Ryan, or Pablo López during their rebuild. Interest swirls around free agents, with the Cubs, Tigers, and Red Sox pursuing third baseman Alex Bregman; the Mets and Orioles favored for starter Framber Valdez; and the Mets aggressively targeting Kyle Schwarber.