Boston Red Sox DFA 5-Year Veteran Catcher

The Boston Red Sox have designated catcher Tyler Heineman for assignment, making room on the 40-man roster for left-handed pitcher Zach Penrod, who was called up from Triple-A Worcester.

Heineman, acquired from the New York Mets earlier this season, posted solid numbers in the minors, slashing .262/.375/.492 with four home runs and 11 RBIs over 73 plate appearances since June 24.

Despite his strong performance in Triple-A, Heineman's path to playing time at the major league level was blocked following the trade deadline acquisition of Danny Jansen, leaving Connor Wong and Reese McGuire as the team's primary catchers.

Catcher Tyler Heineman was DFA’d to create 40-man space for Penrod. https://t.co/TBVVgn8LTW
— Boston Sports Gordo (@BOSSportsGordo) September 14, 2024

The Red Sox, facing the final stretch of the season, opted to prioritize pitching depth in their roster adjustments.

Alongside Penrod’s call-up, the team also promoted left-hander Bailey Horn to the major league roster, while optioning left-hander Cam Booser and right-hander Zack Kelly back to Triple-A Worcester.

Penrod, with a high-90s fastball and strikeout potential, brings added depth to the Red Sox bullpen, which has been an area of focus as the team remains competitive late into the season.