Full Breakdown
Red Sox Activate Veteran Left-Hander Patrick Sandoval After Two-Year Recovery
7/7/2026, 4:29:30 AM
Background: Injury, Surgery, and Contract
Patrick Sandoval, a 29-year-old left-hander, underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024 while with the Los Angeles Angels. He last pitched in a major-league game on June 21, 2024. The Angels non-tendered him after the 2024 season; he then signed a two-year, $18.25 million contract with Boston. He spent six seasons with the Angels, posting a 4.01 career ERA over 536 innings. The Red Sox expected him to miss most of 2025 and return early in 2026, but a biceps injury in April 2026 delayed his rehab.
Key Players and Roster Moves
Boston optioned left-hander Alec Gamboa to Triple-A Worcester and designated right-hander Jack Anderson for assignment, clearing a 40-man roster spot for Sandoval. Jack Anderson, a 26-year-old right-hander who appeared in three games for Boston this season, was designated for assignment.
Timeline of Sandoval’s Return
- June 2024: Last MLB start (Angels).
- Post-2024 season: Non-tendered; signs with Red Sox.
- 2025: Misses entire season.
- Spring 2026: Slow progress; placed on minor-league rehab.
- April 2026: Biceps setback.
- June 5 2026: Begins latest rehab assignment.
- June 2026: Completes six rehab starts (five with Triple-A Worcester, one with Double-A Portland).
- July 6 2026: Activated from 60-day injured list.
- July 9 2026: Debut vs. Chicago White Sox.
Performance Data from Rehab
In his most recent outing on June 5, Sandoval threw 68 pitches, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out seven over five scoreless innings and surrendering no runs. Across six rehab starts he posted a 0.00 ERA. His career MLB line includes a 19-45 record, 4.01 ERA, and a 2.91 ERA with 151 strikeouts in 2022 over 148 2/3 innings.
Impact on Boston’s Rotation
Boston entered early July with injuries to Connelly Early (elbow inflammation), Ranger Suarez (left adductor strain), and Garrett Crochet (out through the All-Star break). Sandoval’s activation adds a veteran left-hander to fill Early’s spot and provides depth amid the rotation’s turmoil. The Red Sox have won eight of their last ten games, including a sweep of the Angels, highlighting the timing of his return. The team’s recent eight-of-ten run follows a sweep of the Angels in Anaheim.
Official Team Announcement
The club announced Sandoval’s reinstatement from the 60-day injured list after using the full 30-day rehab allowance. The activation was completed within the 48-hour window required after exhausting the 30-day rehab period. He joins the active roster and is slated to start in the upcoming series against Chicago.
Conflicting Details on Rehab Starts
One source says Sandoval made six starts exclusively for the Worcester WooSox; another reports five starts with Worcester and one at Double-A Portland. Both agree on six total starts and the five-scoreless-inning performance on June 5.
What’s Next: Season Outlook and Free Agency
Assuming no further injuries, Sandoval will have roughly half a season of starts to showcase his abilities. He becomes a free agent after 2026; his performance will determine whether Boston offers a major-league or minor-league deal for 2027, and could influence contract negotiations before free agency opens.
