Red Sox Insider Thinks Boston Could Be Interested In Surprise Move

Nick Pivetta already turned down an opportunity to pitch for the Red Sox in 2025, but that might not mean he won’t be back on Boston’s staff.

The Red Sox after the 2024 season extended a qualifying offer to Pivetta, who would have secured a one-year, $21.05 million deal if he accepted. The veteran right-hander rejected the offer in an apparent attempt to fetch a long-term pact, but a robust market didn’t materialize upon the start of free agency. So Pivetta, who turns 32 in mid-February, might have to settle for a short-term deal.

And if the versatile arm takes on that willingness, MassLive’s Chris Cotillo believes Boston could enter the conversation for Pivetta’s services.

“The Red Sox have seen him dominate in the late innings before and could be interested in a reunion if his market continues to struggle,” Cotillo wrote in a column published Monday. “His versatility is obviously a plus and Boston could provide a soft landing on a one-year deal if he wants to re-enter free agency without the QO attached next year.”

While Pivetta thrived at times across his four-plus years with the Red Sox, he might no longer like the idea of calling Fenway Park home. Following the marquee additions of Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler, there probably isn’t a spot in Boston’s rotation for Pivetta barring injuries.

But if Pivetta is open to the idea of being a multi-inning relief arm who makes occasional spot starts, a reunion could make sense for both sides.