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Red Sox Release Buehler, Promote Tolle for MLB Debut

Young pitcher making his MLB debut on the field.

Boston, August 30, 2025

News Summary

The Boston Red Sox have released pitcher Walker Buehler and promoted Payton Tolle to make his major league debut as a starting pitcher. This roster change aimed to enhance the team’s playoff prospects as they strive to close the gap in the American League East. Buehler had struggled with performance, posting a 5.45 ERA this season, while Tolle showcased exceptional stats in the minors, including a 3.04 ERA. The Red Sox hope Tolle can contribute significantly in their pursuit of postseason success.

Boston

The Boston Red Sox released pitcher Walker Buehler and promoted pitching prospect Payton Tolle, who made his major league debut as the team’s starting pitcher. The roster move came before the Red Sox faced the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday and was made to create a roster spot for Tolle’s big-league call-up.

Key details: roster move and debut

Buehler, 31, was released after starting 22 games for Boston this season and later moving to the bullpen because of ongoing struggles. Tolle, 22, advanced through Boston’s minor league system and was chosen to start for his MLB debut. In that debut against the Pirates, Tolle threw 5 1/3 innings, allowed two runs, and struck out eight batters.

Why the move was made

The Red Sox made the change to give the team a fresh starting option while pursuing a playoff spot. Boston is currently 3.5 games behind the leaders in the American League East and is focusing on maximizing wins in the stretch run. The team’s leadership acknowledged that Buehler had struggled but still saw him as a potential contributor before deciding on the release.

Buehler’s recent performance and contract

During the 2025 season, Buehler posted a 5.45 ERA and a 1.56 WHIP over 112 1/3 innings. He allowed an average of 4.4 walks per nine innings and 1.8 home runs per nine innings. Buehler signed a one-year, $21.05 million contract with Boston in December 2024. That deal included bonuses tied to specific start milestones and a mutual option for the 2026 season, which carries a $3 million buyout if not exercised. His last appearance for the Red Sox came on August 24, when he pitched in relief against the New York Yankees.

Injury history and background

Buehler faced setbacks after recovering from a second Tommy John surgery, which affected his consistency and ability to return to previous form. Earlier in his career, he was widely recognized for his work with the Los Angeles Dodgers, including contributing to a World Series championship.

Payton Tolle: path to the majors

Tolle began the season at High-A Greenville, advanced to Double-A Portland, and finished in Triple-A Worcester before the major league promotion. Across those three levels this season, he compiled a 3.04 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP, with 133 strikeouts in 91 2/3 innings. Those numbers and his rapid advancement through the minors led to the decision to bring him up to Boston as a starting option.

Immediate outlook

Following his debut, Tolle is expected to make his next start against the Cleveland Guardians unless the club gives him extra rest. The Red Sox will weigh his workload and the team’s immediate needs as they aim to maintain momentum in the playoff race.

Team context and strategy

Boston’s front office and coaching staff adjusted the rotation mix to chase wins down the stretch. The decision to release a veteran arm in favor of a younger, ascending pitcher reflects a balance between short-term urgency and long-term roster evaluation. The move also clears roster and financial considerations tied to Buehler’s contract structure.

What this means going forward

The Red Sox now have a younger starter in the rotation with potential upside, while Buehler becomes a free agent and may seek opportunities elsewhere. Boston’s playoff hopes remain active, and upcoming starts from the pitching staff will be closely monitored as the team works to close the gap in the AL East.

Additional timeline
  • Buehler signed with Boston in December 2024 on a one-year deal worth $21.05 million.
  • He made 22 starts this season before moving to the bullpen due to performance issues.
  • Last appearance for the Red Sox: August 24 (relief vs. Yankees).
  • Tolle started the season in High-A and reached Triple-A before his MLB debut.
  • Tolle’s minor-league totals this season: 3.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 133 strikeouts over 91 2/3 innings.

FAQ

Why did the Red Sox release Walker Buehler?

The Red Sox released Buehler after a season of mixed results and declining performance following injuries and surgeries. The move created a roster spot for a younger starter and reflected the team’s immediate focus on improving results during the playoff race.

Who is Payton Tolle and how did he get promoted?

Payton Tolle is a 22-year-old pitching prospect who advanced rapidly through Boston’s minor league system this season. Strong statistical performance at High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A—highlighted by a 3.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, and 133 strikeouts in 91 2/3 innings—led to his promotion and major league debut.

How did Tolle perform in his major league debut?

Tolle threw 5 1/3 innings, allowed two runs, and struck out eight batters in his first major league start against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

What were Buehler’s season statistics with Boston?

Buehler posted a 5.45 ERA and a 1.56 WHIP across 112 1/3 innings this season. He averaged 4.4 walks per nine innings and 1.8 home runs per nine innings.

Will Tolle make the next start against the Cleveland Guardians?

Tolle is expected to be lined up for his next start versus the Guardians, though the team could elect to give him extra rest before handing him the ball again.


Quick reference

Item Details
Roster move Walker Buehler released; Payton Tolle promoted and started MLB debut
Buehler age 31
Buehler 2025 stats 5.45 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 112 1/3 IP, 4.4 BB/9, 1.8 HR/9
Buehler contract One-year, $21.05M (signed Dec 2024); start-based bonuses; mutual 2026 option with $3M buyout
Tolle age 22
Tolle minor-league 2025 3.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 133 K in 91 2/3 IP across High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Tolle major-league debut 5 1/3 IP, 2 R, 8 K vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Team standing Red Sox are 3.5 games behind the AL East leader
Next likely start for Tolle Projected vs. Cleveland Guardians (subject to rest and rotation decisions)

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER

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