Full Breakdown
Boston Red Sox Designate Cooper Criswell for Assignment Following Johan Oviedo Trade
12/5/2025, 6:25:17 AM
Overview of the Trade and Roster Changes
On April 6, 2025, the Boston Red Sox made a significant roster move by acquiring right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates. This acquisition was part of a strategic effort to bolster the team's pitching staff, particularly after Oviedo's recovery from Tommy John surgery. To accommodate Oviedo and left-handed pitcher Tyler Samaniego, who was also included in the trade, the Red Sox designated right-handed pitcher Cooper Criswell for assignment.
Impact on Cooper Criswell's Career
Cooper Criswell, 29, had previously made 18 starts for the Red Sox, pitching 99 1/3 innings with a 3.57 ERA in 2025. Despite his performance, Criswell's position on the team became precarious following the trade. The decision to designate him for assignment means that any team claiming him off waivers would need to assume his fully guaranteed $800,000 salary, which was signed less than a month prior. Given that Criswell is out of minor-league options, he faces a challenging path ahead.
If Criswell clears waivers, he has the option to accept an outright assignment to Triple-A or elect free agency. However, the likelihood of him making a significant impact on the Red Sox this season has diminished considerably with Oviedo's arrival, reducing his chances of remaining in the major league roster.
Official Statements & Responses
The Red Sox's decision to designate Criswell was reported by Alex Speier of The Boston Globe, highlighting the team's need to make room for new talent. The organization appears to be focused on enhancing its pitching capabilities, which has led to this roster shakeup.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Red Sox's move to acquire Oviedo has been met with some optimism regarding his potential, the decision to part ways with Criswell has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue that Criswell's previous performance warranted a longer opportunity to prove himself, especially given his solid showing in the previous season. Others contend that the trade was necessary to improve the team's overall competitiveness.
What's Next for Criswell?
As the situation unfolds, Criswell's future remains uncertain. If he does not find a new team through waivers, he may continue his career in the Red Sox organization, where he could still have opportunities to contribute, albeit likely in a minor league capacity. The Red Sox's focus on enhancing their pitching staff indicates a commitment to improving their performance in the ongoing season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “However, the major takeaway here is that Criswell was already facing long odds to make an impact on this Red Sox season, and with Oviedo's arrival, those odds shrank to within spitting distance of zero.” — Jackson Roberts, Sports Writer
- “The fact that he has a guaranteed salary means there's a decent chance he stays in the Boston organization.” — Jackson Roberts, Sports Writer
