Chris Sale’s career with the Boston Red Sox officially came to an end on the final weekend of 2023.
Instead of retiring, the Red Sox made an unexpected deal for infielder Vaughn Grissom to the Atlanta Braves, hoping Grissom would stick around as their long-term second baseman.
Both athletes became popular over the weekend, though for different reasons. With a “slight” left groin strain that sidelined him on Saturday, Grissom is unlikely to make a timely season debut according to manager Alex Cora, despite the issue not being believed to be significant.
One day later, in a preseason game between the clubs predicted to be the best in the league, Sale produced his second strong start as the new manager, tossing 2 22/3 scoreless innings against the Phillies.
Sale told reporters in North Port, Florida on Sunday, “I want to be what I’m supposed to be for this team and to make all that work in the offseason worthwhile.” “Work still has to be done. There are still a few issues to resolve. However, I enjoy our current position and our course.