Red Sox News & Links: Justin Slaten returns, hopes to steady bullpen

TL;DR

Justin Slaten returns to the Red Sox bullpen after recovering from an oblique strain, allowing the team to adjust their pitching lineup. The Red Sox players remain optimistic about their performance as they approach September.

Key points

Justin Slaten returns to the Red Sox bullpen.
Slaten was recovering from an oblique strain.
Greg Weissert's role is adjusted due to Slaten's return.
Red Sox players are optimistic about their performance.
Payton Tolle is set to start on Mother's Day.

Boston Red SoxNew York Yankees

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 02: Justin Slaten #63 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during the fifth inning against the New York Yankees in game three of the American League Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium on October 02, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) | Getty Images With all of the consternation about Greg Weissert’s performance lately, it’s worth remembering that he’s not supposed to be a high-leverage reliever. But the mercurial nature of bullpens means that the Red Sox frequently have no choice but to use pitchers who don’t inspire the utmost confidence. But at least the Sox can now knock Weissert down a spot in the pecking order, because Justin Slaten is officially back. “It felt like the longest month of my life,” he said of his recovery form an oblique strain. (Tim Healey, Boston Globe) Had yesterday’s game not been rained out and had Slaten pitched, he would’ve found himself throwing to a surprising catcher: Mickey Gasper, who was penciled into the starting lineup despite the fact that there were no injuries to either Carlos Narvaez or . Here’s Chad Tracy on why he did it: also found himself throwing to a surprising catcher at Fenway recently. Back in town to throw out the ceremonial first pitch, Pedro reflected on the strange fact that the recently fired Jason Varitek wasn’t behind the plate to receive it. “To be honest, I’m not gonna go into details without knowing why because I haven’t really been inside the offices. I’m pretty sure they’re gonna let me know. There’s gotta be a reason because Tek means so much to this city just like every one of us.” Speaking of former Red Sox catchers, was also recently back in town, and he spoke about his time in . Pedro certainly sounds dismayed about Varitek’s parting, but he hasn’t given up on the 2026 Red Sox. Nor have many of the players. “I think we’ve been playing pretty good baseball lately,” said . “I think it shows we’re a pretty good team and we’re going to be in a pretty good spot in September.” They’ve certainly looked like a pretty good team when is on the mound and on his game. He’ll get the start today on what will likely be an emotional mother’s day for him.

Q&A

What injury did Justin Slaten recover from to return to the Red Sox?

Justin Slaten recovered from an oblique strain to return to the Red Sox bullpen.

How does Justin Slaten's return impact the Red Sox bullpen?

Slaten's return allows the Red Sox to move Greg Weissert down in the bullpen hierarchy, improving their pitching options.

What are the Red Sox players saying about their performance this season?

Players like Ceddanne Rafaela express optimism, stating they have been playing good baseball and believe they will be in a strong position in September.