Connelly Early debuts for the Red Sox tonight versus Oakland, a move that folds into Boston’s workflow of dialing up pitching depth. Payton Tolle had been in the mix, and Early’s promotion signals a broader test of the rotation with postseason on the horizon. Dustin May’s IL stint and Kristian Campbell’s AAA showing add context to the roster shuffle as Wilyer Abreu’s status looms in the background.

Boston’s plan blends immediate urgency with long-term upside, leaning on Early’s minor-league success (2.60 ERA, 10-3, 132 Ks in 100 IP) to shape the 2025-rotation conversation. The organization is balancing wins now with the prospect-driven path that could redefine the staff in coming seasons.