The Red Sox and Pirates have completed a five-player trade, acquiring a “perfect inning” Cuban pitcher who is a top 100 prospect.

The Boston Red Sox finalized a trade today to obtain starting pitcher Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates. As reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, this large transaction involving five players is intended to strengthen the Red Sox’s starting pitching depth.

The players exchanged in this trade are as follows:

• The Red Sox receive:Right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo, left-handed pitcher Tyler Samaniego, and catcher Adonys Guzman.
• The Pirates receive:Outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and right-handed pitcher Jesus Travieso.

Johan Oviedo appeared in 9 games this season, recording a 2-1 win-loss record with a 3.57 ERA. Over 40.1 innings pitched, he struck out 42 batters and had a WHIP of 1.21. His best season came in 2023 when he started 32 games, pitched 177.2 innings, posted a 9-14 record, a 4.31 ERA, and 158 strikeouts. His career totals include 15 wins, 26 losses, and a 4.24 ERA.

In 2023, Oviedo threw a “perfect inning” by striking out the side in order, becoming the 112th pitcher in MLB history to achieve this feat. After the 2023 season, he underwent Tommy John surgery on his elbow ligament, causing him to miss the entire 2024 season. Upon returning this year, he suffered a lat muscle injury and only made his season debut in early August.

Following the acquisition of starting pitcher Sonny Gray via trade, the Red Sox official website noted that Oviedo might be used as a bullpen pitcher. He has 14 career relief appearances with an impressive 2.16 ERA. With this addition, the Red Sox are expected to continue pursuing a powerful hitter and possibly another frontline starting pitcher in the free-agent market.