Red Sox Sign Veteran Reliever Tommy Kahnle

The Red Sox have agreed to a Minor League contract with veteran relief pitcher Tommy Kahnle. The club has not officially confirmed the signing as of Tuesday.

Kahnle, 36, is entering his age-36 season in 2026. He previously served as a dependable reliever before his performance in 2025 with the Detroit Tigers. Last season, he recorded a 4.43 ERA, his highest in seven years.

Despite concerning trends in 2025, such as a lower strikeout rate and a higher walk rate, Kahnle's changeup remained effective. Opposing hitters batted .217 against this pitch, which he utilized 85.6% of the time.

His career began with the Yankees in 2010, and he has since played for the Rockies, White Sox, and Dodgers. Kahnle boasts extensive postseason experience, with a 3.06 ERA across 31 playoff appearances. The Red Sox hope his middling 2025 performance was an anomaly, given his strong track record and durability over the past three seasons.