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The Boston Red Sox entered the 2026 MLB season expecting Brayan Bello to be a major part of their rotation. Instead, the right-hander has become one of the biggest disappointments on a team that has struggled to meet expectations all year. Now, Boston appears willing to think outside the box in an effort to get Bello back on track.
After experimenting with a different role earlier this season, the Red Sox are once again expected to use Bello behind an opener on Friday night, a move that could become a regular part of the rotation if the results continue.
MORE: 15 MLB teams currently under the newly proposed salary floor
Apr 24, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello (66) delivers during the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
Coming off a strong 2025 campaign, there was plenty of optimism surrounding Bello entering the year.
The right-hander won 11 games and posted a solid 3.35 ERA last season, establishing himself as a reliable middle-of-the-rotation arm. Many believed he was poised to take another step forward in 2026 and become one of Boston’s most important pitchers.
That has not happened. Through 10 appearances, including seven starts, Bello owns a disappointing 6.43 ERA and a 2-5 record. Consistency has been a major issue, and opposing hitters have been far more successful against him than they were a season ago.
For a Red Sox team already struggling in the standings, Bello’s regression has only added to the frustration.
What’s fascinating about Bello’s season is how dramatically his performance changes depending on how he is used. As a traditional starter, the results have been disastrous. Across 30 2/3 innings, Bello has posted a staggering 9.68 ERA.
However, when pitching after an opener as a bulk reliever, he has looked like an entirely different pitcher. In 18 1/3 innings in that role, Bello has compiled a remarkable 0.98 ERA. Those numbers are impossible to ignore.
May 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello (66) throws a pitch against the Detroit Tigers in the second inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
The Red Sox appear to believe there is something worth exploring here. Whether it’s avoiding the top of opposing lineups early, benefiting from a different routine, or simply feeling more comfortable entering games after the first inning, Bello has clearly responded well to the adjusted role.
Boston desperately needs answers as it tries to salvage a disappointing season.
If using Bello behind an opener continues producing results, what initially looked like a temporary experiment may quickly become a permanent solution.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
Continue reading...
After experimenting with a different role earlier this season, the Red Sox are once again expected to use Bello behind an opener on Friday night, a move that could become a regular part of the rotation if the results continue.
MORE: 15 MLB teams currently under the newly proposed salary floor
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Apr 24, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello (66) delivers during the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
Bello’s Season Has Gone Off Course
Coming off a strong 2025 campaign, there was plenty of optimism surrounding Bello entering the year.
The right-hander won 11 games and posted a solid 3.35 ERA last season, establishing himself as a reliable middle-of-the-rotation arm. Many believed he was poised to take another step forward in 2026 and become one of Boston’s most important pitchers.
That has not happened. Through 10 appearances, including seven starts, Bello owns a disappointing 6.43 ERA and a 2-5 record. Consistency has been a major issue, and opposing hitters have been far more successful against him than they were a season ago.
For a Red Sox team already struggling in the standings, Bello’s regression has only added to the frustration.
The Numbers Tell a Very Different Story
What’s fascinating about Bello’s season is how dramatically his performance changes depending on how he is used. As a traditional starter, the results have been disastrous. Across 30 2/3 innings, Bello has posted a staggering 9.68 ERA.
However, when pitching after an opener as a bulk reliever, he has looked like an entirely different pitcher. In 18 1/3 innings in that role, Bello has compiled a remarkable 0.98 ERA. Those numbers are impossible to ignore.
You must be registered for see images attach
May 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello (66) throws a pitch against the Detroit Tigers in the second inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
This Could Become the New Normal
The Red Sox appear to believe there is something worth exploring here. Whether it’s avoiding the top of opposing lineups early, benefiting from a different routine, or simply feeling more comfortable entering games after the first inning, Bello has clearly responded well to the adjusted role.
Boston desperately needs answers as it tries to salvage a disappointing season.
If using Bello behind an opener continues producing results, what initially looked like a temporary experiment may quickly become a permanent solution.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
Continue reading...
