Several promising rookies began their MLB careers for the Boston Red Sox in 2025.

For all the talk about Boston’s young position players led by Roman Anthony, two pitchers joined the fold down the stretch. Connelly Early and Payton Tolle each arrived late in the 2025 season, and the former found himself working a must-win playoff matchup.

After just four major league starts, Early pitched Game 3 of the American League Division Series against the New York Yankees. Although it didn’t work out for the Red Sox, manager Alex Cora expressed confidence in Early during Monday’s end-of-season press conference .

“After Game 3, I saw that kid in the dugout, and I have no doubt that this guy’s gonna contribute in the future,” Cora said.

Early registered a 2.33 ERA, 29 strikeouts and four walks

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