Free agent Patrick Sandoval signed with Boston Red Sox on December 20. Sandoval was arbitration-eligible after the 2024 season but was non-tendered by the Angels, making him a free agent.

Boston’s signing of Sandoval wasn’t quite the blockbuster that the acquisition of Garrett Crochet was, but the signing was more for depth than anything else. The lefty won’t pitch until at least the second half of the season, as he had an internal brace installed last June. Even though his contribution will be limited this year, Sandoval is nonetheless excited to be in Boston, and hopes to join the rotation once he returns from injury.

“To get back and be able to compete and help this team win games down the stretch, that’s my goal for this year,” Sandoval said On MassLive’s “Fenway Rundown” podcast on Jan. 17.

“I’m super grateful to be part of this historic franchise and to be able to play in Fenway, which is one of — if not my favorite — stadiums in all of baseball. There’s a different level of passion they have for their teams and it’s amazing to see.”

Patrick Sandoval espresses excitement to play for Red Sox in recent podcast appearance

Although Sandoval struggled last year in his limited appearances, he did have an excellent 2022 campaign during which he posted a 2.91 ERA and 151 strikeouts in 148.2 innings, and had a solid 2023. The Red Sox are hoping he can regain that form and be a valuable asset in the bottom half of the rotation.

It might be a crowded rotation with Garrett Crochet, Brayan Bello, Walker Buehler, Tanner Houck and Kutter Crawford all vying for spots, but even if he doesn’t make the rotation, Sandoval will still have a spot in the bullpen as a long arm.

If nothing else, his comments on the podcast prove he’ll be motivated. His eagerness to play at Fenway Park in front of Red Sox fans is encouraging, and hopefully he can make a fast recovery and join the roster as soon as possible. Because if one thing is for certain, you can never have too much pitching.

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