Boston, MA: In a significant move to bolster their pitching lineup, the Boston Red Sox announced the acquisition of right-handed pitcher Justin Slaten from the New York Mets. This deal, which includes the exchange of minor league left-handed pitcher Ryan Ammons and cash considerations, brings a promising new talent to the Red Sox roster.
About Justin Slaten:
- Career Progression: 26-year-old Slaten was recently selected by the Mets from the Texas Rangers in the Rule 5 Draft. His impressive performance in the 2023 season, with a 2.87 ERA and a remarkable 12.97 strikeouts per 9.0 innings, caught the eye of the Red Sox scouts.
- 2023 Performance: Slaten played 40 games, including one start, with Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Round Rock, showcasing his potential with 86 strikeouts and a .206 opponent batting average.
- Triple-A Experience: After being promoted to Round Rock on September 12, Slaten recorded a stellar 1.08 ERA and a .107 opponent batting average in five games.
- Draft and Early Career: Hailing from Texas, Slaten was a third-round pick in the 2019 First-Year Player Draft by Texas. Throughout his minor league career, spanning 97 games (35 starts), he has maintained a 5.31 ERA.
About Ryan Ammons:
- Background: The 22-year-old Ammons, a 10th round pick in the 2023 First-Year Player Draft by the Red Sox, is a graduate of Clemson University. He demonstrated his abilities over four seasons (2020-23) at Clemson, recording a 4.35 ERA with 13 saves in 47 games.
- Post-Draft Career: Despite being drafted, Ammons has not yet pitched for a Red Sox affiliate.
Impact on the Red Sox:
- With Slaten’s acquisition, the Red Sox aims to strengthen their pitching department. Slaten’s addition to the team is seen as a strategic move, given his impressive minor league track record and potential for growth.
- Boston’s 40-man roster now stands at 38 players, indicating room for further team development and acquisitions.
This exchange signifies the Red Sox’s commitment to nurturing promising talent and enhancing their competitive edge in the upcoming seasons.
BOSTON RED SOX 40-MAN ROSTER (38)
Pitchers (24): Brayan Bello, Brennan Bernardino, Isaiah Campbell, Kutter Crawford, Wikelman Gonzalez, Tanner Houck, Joe Jacques, Kenley Jansen, Zack Kelly, Mauricio Llovera, Chris Martin, Bryan Mata, Chris Murphy, Luis Perales, Nick Pivetta, Nick Robertson, Chris Sale, John Schreiber, Justin Slaten, Brandon Walter, Zack Weiss, Greg Weissert, Garrett Whitlock, Josh Winckowski
Catchers (2): Reese McGuire, Connor Wong
Infielders (6): Triston Casas, Bobby Dalbec, Rafael Devers, David Hamilton, Trevor Story, Enmanuel Valdez
Outfielders (4): Wilyer Abreu, Jarren Duran, Rob Refsnyder, Masataka Yoshida
Infielder/Outfielders (2): Ceddanne Rafaela, Pablo Reyes
