It feels like Opening Day 2025 was only yesterday, but the truth is that the MLB season is almost done with the first two months. May is already in its dying days, and it'll only be a matter of time before July's All-Star festivities and trade deadline are here.
Although there are still two months until the deadline, there has already been plenty of movement around the Majors. The Boston Red Sox have made a handful of roster moves early in their up-and-down campaign, while some of the club's former players have been involved in transactions of their own.
Unfortunately, the latest move involving a former Red Sox player isn't anything to celebrate.
Former Red Sox OF Kevin Pillar DFA'd by Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers announced on Sunday that former Red Sox outfielder Kevin Pillar has been designated for assignment. The Rangers now have a week to decide if they'll waive or trade Pillar before he can decide to elect for free agency.
It's always tough to see a well-traveled veteran sent packing, but Pillar being DFA'd by the Rangers is hardly surprising. The former Cal State product hasn't been the same since leaving the Toronto Blue Jays six years ago, and his 2025 performance continued that trend as he only slashed .209/.209/.256 with one RBI and eight strikeouts in 20 games (43 at-bats).
Besides his time with their AL East rivals, Red Sox fans will remember Pillar from his signing a one-year, $4.25 million contract with Boston ahead of the 2020 campaign.
He played well for the Red Sox during the COVID-shortened season, recording four homers, 13 RBIs, eight walks, and a .274/.325/.470 slash line in 30 games before being traded to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jacob Wallace. The West Hills, CA native has struggled to find a permanent home since that trade, having played for seven teams since leaving Boston.
The Red Sox's outfield is set, leaving no room for a reunion with their former outfielder. Even if there was room, the former 25-stolen base bandit's career is beyond the point where he can move the needle toward a potential playoff appearance.
Whether or not Pillar can find another new home remains to be seen. His performance is unlikely to improve after turning 36 in January, meaning it might be time for him to consider a possible retirement if he can't find a fresh start soon.
