The Red Sox have lost five straight games heading into Friday's contest with the San Diego Padres.
After five consecutive losses and a 1-5 overall record to start the season, the Boston Red Sox have made a pair of roster moves right before the home opener on Friday (2:10 p.m. ET).
As noted by Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the Red Sox have called up pitchers Zack Kelly and Tyler Uberstine from Triple-A Worcester.
The Sox are taking on the San Diego Padres on Friday. That means the return of old friend Xander Bogaerts, who signed with San Diego ahead of the 2022 campaign.
As of this posting, only one of the corresponding moves is publicized, with Cotillo reporting that Johan Oviedo is headed to the injured list with a right elbow strain. Oviedo was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates this offseason.
Here's what you need to know:
About Kelly
A 31-year-old Virginia native, Kelly has appeared in parts of four big league seasons, all with the Red Sox. He's gone 8-6 overall with a 4.15 ERA. He made a career-high 49 appearances in 2024 and followed that up with 28 more in 2025. A hard thrower, he'll look to find a more established role in the bullpen this season.
Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Zack Kelly (76) pitches during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Brad Penner-Imagn ImagesAbout Uberstine
Now 26 years old, Uberstine was a 19th-round draft pick of the Red Sox in 2021. He played his college ball at Northwestern and his first appearance will be his major league debut.
He owns a career record of 11-12 in the minor leagues and also has a 3.54 ERA. He's made 55 career appearances, with 41 of them being starts. He went four innings in his first start this season, giving up just one run and striking out three.
Also in Red Sox news
--The Sox have released their lineup for the home opener. After a day off on Wednesday, Roman Anthony is back in the lineup at the leadoff spot. Sonny Gray, acquired this offseason from the Cardinals, is on the mound looking for a bounce back outing. He allowed three earned runs in four innings against the Cincinnati Reds in his first time out.
--It's only six games, sure, but our own Zach Coe took a look at where the Red Sox' offense stands thus far. Hint, it's been a very underwhelming start to the campaign for Alex Cora's team and for several of the players who are key parts of the offense.
--Coe also took a look at the MLB Draft bonus pool numbers that were released on Wednesday. As the Red Sox look to rebuild a rapidly-depleting farm system, this small bonus pool will make it harder to do.
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