Hold onto your hats, Red Sox fans, because the battle for the fifth spot in Boston's starting rotation is heating up—and it's taking a surprising turn! While most eyes have been on Johan Oviedo as the frontrunner, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter dropped a curveball this week, predicting Connelly Early to snag the coveted No. 5 role.
The first four spots in the rotation seem locked in with Garrett Crochet, Ranger Suarez, Sonny Gray, and Brayan Bello. But the fifth starter? That's where things get intriguing. Spring training has seen Oviedo, Payton Tolle, and Early vying for the position, with Kutter Crawford and Patrick Sandoval lurking on the sidelines, likely starting the season on the IL.
Oviedo has been the talk of the town, especially after his recent standout performance. Yet, Reuter's take challenges the narrative, highlighting Early's impressive showing last September, which even earned him a postseason start. But here's where it gets controversial: Reuter suggests that despite Oviedo's experience, his remaining minor league option and Early's late-season success could tip the scales in Early's favor. Is this a bold prediction or a missed call? The debate is on.
Adding another layer to this puzzle, The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey doubled down on Oviedo, predicting he'll start the season in the fifth spot. And this is the part most people miss: The Red Sox have strategic service time considerations that could keep Early and Tolle in the minors for a portion of 2026—unless injuries force their hand, as we saw in 2025.
So, who will ultimately claim the No. 5 spot? Is Reuter onto something, or will Oviedo's experience prevail? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—who’s your pick, and why? The drama of baseball’s hottest spring competition is just getting started!
