Red Sox Reshuffle Rotation, Debut Dustin May Wednesday

The Boston Red Sox have made several adjustments to their pitching rotation following the trade deadline, including pushing back Dustin May's debut to allow for proper rest and slotting Lucas Giolito back into his regular spot. May, acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers, is expected to make his first start with the Red Sox after nine days off, while Giolito will pitch on regular rest. The team faces a challenging schedule against playoff-caliber teams like the Houston Astros, who made significant deadline additions such as Carlos Correa. Meanwhile, the Red Sox are coping with the loss of Tanner Houck, who will undergo Tommy John surgery and likely miss the entire 2026 season, leaving uncertainties about the future rotation. The rotation beyond ace Garrett Crochet remains questionable as Boston lacks depth and long-term control over several starters, with some players like Dustin May and Walker Buehler approaching free agency. Comparatively, teams like the Chicago Cubs have added pitching depth via trades but avoided major blockbuster moves, highlighting differing approaches to pitching staff management across MLB teams.