Craig Breslow, Alex Cora explain decision to release Walker Buehler

BOSTON — The Red Sox had hoped to give Walker Buehler time to acclimate to a bullpen role. But the team’s decision to start Payton Tolle in Friday’s game against the Pirates meant they needed a spot on the 40-man roster and Buehler was the most expendable player.

Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow explained the decision to give him his release.

“We had the expectation and anticipated being able to give him plenty of time to get used to that role and to pitch his way into leverage spots,” Breslow said. “But circumstances around the roster had changed and we need to make sure that we’re thinking about best positioning this group to win as many games as possible down the stretch.”

Alex Cora said it was a difficult move to make.

“It’s tough. This is where we’re at,” Cora said. “I know it didn’t go his way or our way. He expected more and we expected more. … I still think he has more in the tank. I enjoyed being around him. I learned a lot from him. I wish him nothing but the best.”

Buehler, 31, signed a one-year, $21.05 million contract with Boston last December after helping the Dodgers win the 2024 World Series.

While he’d had a few scattered bright spots over the season, he was 7-7 with a 5.40 ERA and 1.56 WHIP in 22 starts, leading to his demotion to the bullpen.

He allowed two runs on two hits, one home run and a walk in 2 ⅓ innings in his only relief appearance.

Breslow said the team gave him his outright release instead of designating him for assignment, a move that gives him a head start on finding his next spot, out of respect.

“Just trying to be mindful and respectful of who he is and what he’s accomplished,” Breslow said. “(We) felt like that was the fairest way to treat him at this point.”