One-Time Red Sox Hurler Recalled by Chicago Cubs
The Boston Red Sox have relied on the team’s organizational pitching depth early and often this season with injuries to key arms forcing the team to make a number of moves since Opening Day.
That’s especially true of right-hander Michael Fulmer, who made one appearance with the Red Sox early in the season before being designated for assignment on April 18. After clearing waivers, Fulmer opted for free agency and signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs.
The Cubs announced on Monday that they have selected Fulmer’s contract from Triple-A Iowa, paving the way for the one-time All-Star and 2016 American League Rookie of the Year winner to return for his second stint in the big leagues this season.
Fulmer signed a two-year minor league contract with the Red Sox in February 2024 while rehabbing his way back from Tommy John surgery. Having achieved success pitching out of the bullpen after functioning as a starter for the first four seasons of his career, Fulmer looked like a solid bet to become a late-innings weapon in Boston’s bullpen.
During his lone appearance with the Red Sox, he pitched 2 2/3 innings of relief on April 14, allowing four hits, three earned runs, two walks, and a home run, while striking out two against the Tampa Bay Rays. He was DFA’d to make room for Hunter Dobbins on the team’s 26-man roster.
The Red Sox will begin a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday. Walker Buehler (5-5) opposes Jack Kochanowicz (3-8) in the series opener.