The Boston Red Sox's fifth starter role is up for grabs, with a surprise contender emerging from the spring training competition. While Johan Oviedo was widely expected to secure the spot, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter has a different take. In his updated MLB rotation predictions, Reuter predicts that Connelly Early will be Boston's No. 5 starter, rather than Oviedo.
Reuter highlights the intriguing battle between Oviedo, Early, and Payton Tolle, noting that Early's strong performance last September, coupled with his postseason start, could give him an edge. The Red Sox also have strategic service time considerations, which could keep Early and Tolle in the minors for a certain number of games in 2026. However, as we saw in 2025, these plans can change quickly when injuries occur.
The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey predicted earlier that Oviedo would begin the season as Boston's fifth starter, but Reuter's choice of Early adds an interesting twist to the story. Who will ultimately win the fifth spot? Stay tuned, as this battle promises to be a fascinating one, with implications for the Red Sox's 2026 season.
