Red Sox Release Outfielder-Turned-Pitcher Acquired In Benintendi Trade

The Boston Red Sox have recently announced the release of Freddy Valdez, a promising infielder/outfielder who joined the team in 2021 as part of a trade involving Andrew Benintendi.

Valdez, highly regarded as a prospect at the time of the trade, unfortunately struggled to find success at the plate in the past two seasons and never advanced beyond rookie ball.

Despite initial optimism and praise from Red Sox chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom, Valdez's performance did not meet expectations.

The Red Sox released minor league outfielder Freddy Valdez. He was one of the Mets prospects that came back to Boston in the Andrew Benintendi trade. pic.twitter.com/rF1lSu86Kr
— Beyond the Monster (@BeyondtheMnstr) May 25, 2023

In an effort to salvage his career, Valdez was converted into a pitcher this season but was ultimately released during extended spring training. This decision comes as a disappointment, as the 21-year-old outfielder had shown potential and generated excitement upon his arrival.

Notably, two other players from the same trade, Franchy Cordero and Andrew Benintendi, are no longer with the organization. However, three pitchers, Josh Winckowski, Grant Gambrell, and Luis De La Rosa, remain in the Red Sox system and have displayed promising performances in their respective levels.

#RedSox released OF Freddy Valdez, one of the prospects they received in the Andrew Benintendi trade.
— Pete Abraham (@PeteAbe) May 25, 2023

While Valdez's struggles limited his opportunities with the Red Sox, there is a possibility that another team may take a chance on him, hoping to unlock his potential and provide a fresh start for his career.

For his minor-league numbers, he holds a .251/.353/.397 triple-slash line, with seven home runs, 64 RBIs, six stolen bases, and 65 runs scored across 113 games played. Photo Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports