Red Sox Acquire Johan Oviedo, Prospects; Trade ‘The Password’ to Pirates
The Boston Red Sox have made a significant trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates, acquiring 27-year-old right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo, alongside two prospects. In exchange, the Red Sox have sent power-hitting outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia, also known as “The Password,” and 18-year-old right-hander Jesus Travieso to the Pirates.
Details of the Trade
This five-player trade also includes Tyler Samaniego, a 26-year-old left-handed pitcher, and catching prospect Adonys Guzman being added to the Red Sox roster. Samaniego was recently added to the Pirates’ 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.
To accommodate Samaniego, the Red Sox have designated righty Cooper Criswell for assignment, creating space on their 40-man roster.
Johan Oviedo’s Performance
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 275 lbs
- 2025 Stats: Nine starts, 3.57 ERA, 4.92 FIP, 1.22 WHIP, 42 strikeouts, and 23 walks in 40.1 innings.
- Career Stats: 4.24 ERA over 81 major league appearances, including 67 starts.
- 2023 Stats: 32 starts with a 4.31 ERA before undergoing Tommy John surgery in December 2023.
- Recovery: Missed the entire 2024 season; a right lat strain delayed his 2025 return.
Oviedo’s four-seam fastball, averaging 95.5 mph, has proven effective against opponents, who recorded a .149 batting average against it. His ability to combine pitches including a slider, curveball, sinker, and changeup has also contributed to his performance.
Prospects Departing and Joining the Red Sox
- Jhostynxon Garcia (“The Password”): 22-year-old outfielder ranked as Boston’s No. 6 prospect. He debuted in 2025, batting .267 with 21 home runs across Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester.
- Jesus Travieso: 18-year-old right-handed pitcher traded to the Pirates.
- Tyler Samaniego: 26-year-old lefty with a 3.82 ERA in 127 minor league outings.
- Adonys Guzman: 2025 Draft selection, showcased a strong 2023 season with a .907 OPS at Arizona.
Graduating from Boston College to Arizona, Guzman has gained recognition for his skills, including an impressive arm graded at 80 on Baseball America’s 20-80 scale.
This trade highlights the Red Sox’s strategic moves to bolster their pitching staff while parting with promising talent. The reshaping of their roster aims for enhanced performance in the upcoming seasons.
