Dustin May: To Red Sox | Pitcher | ESPN
The MLB offseason is always a hotbed of rumors and strategic acquisitions, but few stories have sparked as much intrigue as the possibility of Dustin May joining the Boston Red Sox. Once a rising ace in the Dodgers’ rotation, May’s name is now surfacing in trade talks and free agency buzz. ESPN analysts and insiders have also taken a deep dive into this developing narrative, fueling fan speculation across the country.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Dustin May’s potential move to the Red Sox, his pitching profile, injury history, and what major sports networks like ESPN are saying. Whether you’re a Sox fan or a Dodgers loyalist, understanding May’s next step is critical as the MLB landscape continues to evolve.
Who Is Dustin May?
Dustin Jake May, born on September 6, 1997, in Justin, Texas, is a professional baseball pitcher known for his fiery red hair and electric arm. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 180 pounds, May was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers. He quickly rose through the ranks of the minor leagues, debuting in MLB in August 2019.
Career Stats Overview (As of 2025)
- Win–Loss Record: 12–9
- ERA: 3.10
- Strikeouts: 210
- WHIP: 1.09
- Fastball Velocity: Averages 97–99 mph, often touches 100+
May’s biggest weapon is his two-seam fastball (sinker), which boasts elite movement, often dubbed “video game” stuff. When healthy, he’s a potential top-of-the-rotation starter.
The Injury Factor: Tommy John Surgery
One major factor shaping Dustin May’s career has been injuries, especially his Tommy John surgery in May 2021. After a promising start to the season with the Dodgers, May tore his UCL and underwent the surgery that sidelined him until the middle of the 2022 season.
Unfortunately, he suffered another setback in 2023, limiting his appearances. As of early 2025, he’s working toward a full recovery, and that makes him both a risk and a high-upside investment for any team—including the Red Sox.
Dustin May to Red Sox: Is a Trade or Signing Likely?
Why the Red Sox Are Interested
The Boston Red Sox, currently undergoing a roster rebuild under their new management, are seeking young, controllable pitching talent. With the AL East being one of the most competitive divisions in baseball, Boston needs front-line starters who can compete with the likes of Gerrit Cole (Yankees) and Kevin Gausman (Blue Jays).
Dustin May fits the bill perfectly:
- High Velocity + Movement: A rare combo ideal for Fenway Park challenges.
- Age: Only 27, fits the team’s youth movement.
- Upside: If healthy, May has All-Star potential.
Potential Trade Scenario
If the Dodgers are looking to offload May—either due to payroll management or concerns over his durability—a trade with the Red Sox could include:
- Red Sox Receive: Dustin May
- Dodgers Receive: A package including middle infield prospects, bullpen arms, and possibly a catching prospect
Boston’s farm system includes names like Marcelo Mayer and Roman Anthony, but they’d likely keep their top-3 untouchables. Instead, May could be acquired for someone like Blaze Jordan or Nick Yorke, plus a high-upside arm like Wikelman Gonzalez.
ESPN Trade Rumors & Analyst Takes
ESPN’s Jeff Passan and Buster Olney have both commented on Dustin May’s future. While there’s no official confirmation, sources indicate that the Red Sox have inquired about May’s availability during recent GM meetings.
In a recent ESPN+ article, an unnamed scout said:
“If May’s elbow holds up, he could be the best pitcher in the AL East within two years. The Red Sox would be smart to buy low.”
Why Dustin May Is a Perfect Fit in Boston
Boston’s pitching staff has lacked a true ace since the peak of Chris Sale. While Brayan Bello and Kutter Crawford have shown promise, they lack May’s pure stuff and ceiling.
Key Benefits for the Red Sox
- Power Arm: May brings velocity that few Red Sox starters can match.
- Rotation Stability: If healthy, May slots in as a No. 1 or No. 2 starter.
- Postseason Pedigree: Has pitched in playoff games for the Dodgers, including the 2020 World Series.
Pairing May with a healthy Garrett Whitlock and Brayan Bello could transform Boston’s rotation from middling to menacing.
Challenges and Risks
While May’s upside is undeniable, his injury history remains a concern. The Red Sox front office would need to weigh the following:
- Medical Reports: Has he fully recovered from his elbow issues?
- Workload Management: How many innings can he realistically pitch in 2025?
- Cost vs. Risk: Are the Red Sox giving up too much prospect capital for a potential injury risk?
What ESPN Projects for 2025
According to ESPN’s preseason projections, if May returns fully healthy, he could post:
- ERA: 3.35
- Innings: 120–140
- Strikeouts: 150+
- WAR: 2.5–3.0
These numbers would make him the best starter in Boston’s current rotation.
Fantasy baseball analysts on ESPN have also listed May as a “high-upside sleeper,” assuming he lands in a favorable pitching environment.
Red Sox Fan Reactions
On social media and fan forums like Reddit’s r/RedSox and ESPN comments, fans are cautiously optimistic:
- “If we can land May without giving up Mayer or Anthony, I’m all in.”
- “High risk, high reward. We haven’t had a flamethrower like him since Pedro.”
- “Fenway might not be kind to a sinkerball pitcher, but with that stuff? I’ll take the risk.”
What This Means for the Dodgers
Trading Dustin May would signal that the Dodgers are either fully confident in their current staff (e.g., Walker Buehler, Bobby Miller, Gavin Stone) or that they’re looking to retool the roster with bats or depth.
LA could use Boston’s farm depth to reinforce their bullpen or catcher depth, especially if Will Smith becomes a trade chip or injury concern.
May’s Mentality: Ready for a Change?
In several interviews, Dustin May has expressed gratitude to the Dodgers organization but has not ruled out the possibility of a move. His recent comments in Spring Training 2025 included:
“I just want to be healthy and compete. Wherever that is, I’ll give 100%.”
This suggests that May is open to a new chapter—perhaps in Boston, where the pressure is intense but the rewards are great.
ESPN’s Final Word
In a recent ESPN Baseball Tonight podcast, the panel discussed a segment titled “Buy Low Aces”, and Dustin May was one of the top names mentioned.
Karl Ravech said:
“If the Red Sox make this move, it’s a signal they’re not waiting to rebuild. They’re going for it—just with a new face of the rotation.”
That perspective has gained traction not just with analysts, but also with rival executives. May’s value is down due to health questions, but ESPN’s coverage consistently highlights his immense upside.
Conclusion: Dustin May to the Red Sox Could Be a Game-Changer
Dustin May heading to the Red Sox would be a bold but calculated gamble for a team looking to reclaim its spot among the AL elite. His powerful arsenal, combined with his age and experience, makes him a prime candidate for a rebound season. While the risk is real—especially regarding injuries—the potential reward is immense.
If ESPN reports come to fruition and May dons the Red Sox uniform, Boston’s pitching future could be brighter than it has been in years.
FAQs About Dustin May and the Red Sox
Is Dustin May officially traded to the Red Sox?
No, as of now, there is no official confirmation. The move is speculative but gaining momentum, according to ESPN insiders.
What kind of pitcher is Dustin May?
May is a right-handed starting pitcher known for his elite sinker, high velocity, and sharp breaking ball. He is considered a power pitcher with ace potential.
What is Dustin May’s contract status?
May is still under team control and arbitration-eligible. He won’t hit free agency until after the 2026 season, making him a valuable long-term asset.
Has Dustin May played at Fenway Park before?
Yes, May has appeared in interleague games, though not frequently. His ability to adapt to the hitter-friendly Fenway Park remains to be seen.
What is ESPN’s latest take on Dustin May?
ESPN analysts describe May as a “buy-low ace” with top-tier upside. While his health is a concern, most believe a healthy May could transform any rotation—including Boston’s.
