RED SOX MAKE NOISE: Boston Reunites With Former Star Pitcher Martín Pérez in Blockbuster Deal With Chicago White Sox
BOSTON – April 20, 2025 — In a bold move that signals their intent to contend, the Boston Red Sox have pulled off a blockbuster deal with the Chicago White Sox, reuniting with former All-Star left-handed pitcher Martín Pérez. The trade, finalized late Friday night, brings the 33-year-old Venezuelan back to Fenway Park, where he previously enjoyed a strong two-year stint.
Pérez, who had been enjoying a resurgence with the White Sox this season, comes to Boston in exchange for top infield prospect Nick Yorke and right-handed reliever Zack Kelly. The deal was met with a mix of surprise and excitement across the baseball world, as Pérez had been a steady presence in Chicago’s rotation, posting a 2.89 ERA through his first four starts.
Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow expressed confidence in the deal, calling Pérez “a proven competitor who knows what it means to pitch under pressure.” Breslow emphasized the veteran’s leadership and consistency, saying Pérez will “help stabilize our rotation and bring experience to our young staff.”
Pérez originally pitched for the Red Sox in 2020 and 2021, becoming a fan favorite for his reliability and upbeat personality. Though not a high-strikeout arm, he made his mark with pitch efficiency and ground-ball inducement. After short stints with Texas and then Chicago, his return to Boston feels like a full-circle moment for both pitcher and franchise.
“I’m excited to be back,” Pérez said in a brief statement. “Boston is like family to me. I’m ready to help this team win.”
The Red Sox, who are off to a competitive start in the AL East but have battled inconsistency in their starting rotation, clearly see Pérez as a solution. With injuries plaguing key arms like Garrett Whitlock and Tanner Houck, Boston needed stability. Pérez is expected to join the rotation immediately and could even make his first start back in a Red Sox uniform as soon as next week against the Tampa Bay Rays.
The move also reflects the White Sox’s current direction. After a slow start to their 2025 campaign, they appear to be pivoting toward a youth movement, with Yorke viewed as a long-term middle infield option.
As for Boston, this trade signals that the front office is serious about staying competitive in a tight division. With Pérez back on the mound and the team inching closer to full health, the Red Sox may have just taken a major step toward October baseball.