Imagine transforming from one of the worst to one of the best in just a few years—that’s exactly what the Boston Red Sox have done with their pitching program. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can they sustain this success with new leadership at the helm? Let’s dive in.
Since Craig Breslow took the reins as chief baseball officer, the Red Sox have undergone a remarkable turnaround. Once struggling to develop young pitchers, they now boast a roster brimming with talented arms dominating the majors. This transformation didn’t go unnoticed—Justin Willard, the former director of pitching and a key architect of this success, was poached by the New York Mets to become their major league pitching coach. And this is the part most people miss: The Red Sox aren’t just replacing Willard; they’re doubling down with a dynamic duo to keep the momentum alive.
This winter, the Red Sox promoted Ben Buck to succeed Willard as the director of pitching, while also hiring Quinn Cleary from the Seattle Mariners as his second-in-command. Both have hit the ground running, emphasizing continuity while adding their own flair. Their mantra? “Throwing nasty stuff in the zone.” It’s simple, memorable, and packed with complexity—a perfect recipe for success, according to Buck and Cleary.
Buck’s rise is nothing short of impressive. After just one year with the Red Sox, he’s already making waves. His background is as unique as it gets: 15 years as a college coach, a stint as a poker room manager, and a playing career at Lamar Community College and the University of Utah. Here’s the bold part: Buck credits his poker days for teaching him transferable skills like conflict resolution, risk assessment, and reading people—skills he now applies to coaching. Who knew dealing cards could prepare you for developing pitchers?
Cleary’s journey is equally captivating. At just 26, he’s already a rising star in baseball’s front office ranks. From interning at Cressey Sports Performance to roles with the Phillies and Mariners, Cleary’s rapid ascent is a testament to his sharp mind and feel for the game. But here’s the question: Can someone so young truly make a difference at this level? Cleary’s family history—a grandfather who won Olympic gold in hockey and a Harvard-dominated lineage—suggests he’s no stranger to pressure or success.
Together, Buck and Cleary are tasked with building on the foundation laid by Breslow and Willard. With three pitchers in Baseball America’s Top 100 Prospects and a wave of young talent from recent drafts, the future looks bright. But the real challenge? Finding those small, incremental improvements to keep evolving. As Buck puts it, “It’s less about change and more about continuing on the path where evolution can happen.”
Now, let’s shift gears to a story that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings: Brayan Bello’s upcoming homecoming. This Wednesday, the Red Sox right-hander will pitch for Team Dominican Republic in a pre-World Baseball Classic exhibition against the Detroit Tigers at Estadio Quisqueya in Santo Domingo. For Bello, it’s more than just a game—it’s a chance to pitch in front of his family and countrymen for the first time since becoming a big leaguer. “It’s going to be very emotional,” he said. With stars like Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. by his side, Bello is aiming to help his country reclaim the WBC title.
Closer to home, the Red Sox are nurturing local talent. Shea Sprague and Jack Winnay, both Boston-area natives and recent draft picks, are turning heads at the Fenway South complex. Sprague, a lefty with impressive pitchability, is working on increasing his fastball velocity, while Winnay, a versatile infielder with power, is poised for a breakout season. Here’s the thought-provoking question: Can these hometown heroes make it all the way to Fenway Park? Only time will tell.
Lastly, a familiar face is moving on: Max Burt, a former Yankees minor leaguer and Northeastern standout, has signed with the Detroit Tigers. After eight seasons with the Yankees, Burt leaves as Somerset’s all-time leader in hits, runs, and games played. At 29, he’s getting a fresh start and another shot at the majors.
So, what do you think? Can Buck and Cleary keep the Red Sox’s pitching pipeline flowing? Will Bello’s homecoming be the emotional highlight of his career? And can Sprague and Winnay become the next big things from New England? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
