Red Sox’s Shocking Move: Barnes Blindsided by Designation for Assignment

By | Niranjan Bhargav 1 Feb, 2023

Red Sox’s Shocking Move: Barnes Blindsided by Designation for Assignment

The Boston Red Sox made a surprising move last week when they designated All-Star right-handed reliever Matt Barnes for assignment. This move came as a shock not only to fans and media but to Barnes himself, who was blindsided by the decision. After spending his entire 12-year career with the Red Sox organization, Barnes was shipped off to the Miami Marlins in exchange for left-hander Richard Bleier and cash considerations.

In his introductory press conference with the Marlins, Barnes gave his thoughts on the “bittersweet” transition. He revealed that he was caught off guard when the club designated him for assignment. Despite posting a 4.31 ERA with a 34-to-21 strikeout-to-walk ratio and a .240 batting average against in 39 2/3 innings last season, Barnes was considered one of the better options on the 40-man roster.

Matt Barnes says he was “blindsided” by DFA last week. Also declined to comment on retweeting a tweet which suggested he was overworked by Sox.
— Sean McAdam (@Sean_McAdam) January 31, 2023

Despite his performance evaluation, Matt Barnes was deemed a harder player to move due to his contract. He was owed $8.375 million with a club option for 2024 that included a $2.25 million buyout. However, Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom decided to trade Barnes along with over $5 million for a 35-year-old left-hander instead of getting rid of other less-performing players on the roster.

Many consider this move questionable, as Barnes should not have seen it coming. He is the latest longstanding member of the organization to be treated in a disrespectful fashion. This move raises questions about the direction the Red Sox are taking and the way they are handling their players.

In conclusion, Barnes’ designation for the assignment was a surprising and questionable move by the Boston Red Sox. The veteran reliever was blindsided by the decision and was traded to the Miami Marlins for a 35-year-old left-hander and cash considerations. This move raises concerns about the direction the Red Sox are taking and how they handle their players.