Will the Boston Red Sox' Opening Day roster feature a new 'big guy' with a diverse arsenal? That's the burning question on the minds of Red Sox fans as spring training approaches. Let's dive into the details!
This article, originally published on January 17, 2026, by Christopher Smith of MassLive.com, focuses on Ryan Watson's quest to secure a spot on the Red Sox' Opening Day roster.
Watson, a 28-year-old right-handed pitcher, was acquired shortly after the Athletics selected him in December's Rule 5 Draft. This means he's subject to specific rules: he must remain on the 26-man roster for the entire 2026 season (unless placed on the injured list) or be placed on waivers.
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has expressed the team's long-standing interest in Watson, even attempting to acquire him previously. Breslow believes Watson's 'deep mix' and ability to throw strikes will translate to success in the major leagues.
So, what exactly is this 'deep mix'?
Watson, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 225 pounds, boasts a repertoire including a four-seam fastball, sinker, split-finger fastball, slider, and curveball.
The split-finger fastball serves as a variation of his fastball, thrown consistently for strikes. It keeps hitters off his four-seamer, which is effective when thrown high in the strike zone. Watson himself noted that he sometimes became predictable using his four-seam fastball. The addition of the split-finger helps combat this.
His slider, also described as a sweeper, is considered his best secondary pitch. It generates more horizontal movement than depth. The curveball, on the other hand, has significant depth. Watson has been using it more frequently in recent years, throwing it to both right-handed and left-handed hitters. He sees it as a weapon to avoid predictability.
In the previous year, Watson posted a 4.26 ERA in 46 appearances (50 ⅔ innings) at Triple-A Sacramento, averaging 11.4 strikeouts and 2.8 walks per nine innings.
The Red Sox have also added pitchers with above-average extension this offseason. Both Watson and 26-year-old Tyler Samaniego extend far down the mound, giving hitters less time to react and making their fastballs appear even faster. Watson focuses on the angles created by his extension and release. He also aims to throw his sinker more often, considering it a valuable weapon.
Last year, Watson's fastball topped out at 97 mph, typically sitting in the 94-96 mph range. He aims to consistently throw his fastball at 95 mph or higher.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could Watson's diverse pitch selection and ability to throw strikes be the key to his success in the big leagues? Or will the pressure of the Rule 5 Draft guidelines impact his performance?
And this is the part most people miss... The Red Sox are clearly investing in pitchers with unique skills and approaches.
What are your thoughts on Watson's potential impact on the team? Do you think his 'deep mix' will be effective? Share your opinions in the comments below!
