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Come Fan with UsThursday, August 6, 2026

Red Sox Release Mark Prior

The former No. 1 pick of the Chicago Cubs, who burst on the scene with an 18-victory season in 2003, has been let go by the Red Sox.

Mark Prior last pitched in the major leagues in 2006, but that has not stopped him from trying several comebacks from shoulder surgery, first with the San Diego Padres, then the Texas Rangers, and then the New York Yankees. He also pitched in the independent Golden League.

This spring, he signed a minor-league deal with the Boston Red Sox, and did quite well in his first few appearances, so much so that he was thought close to a major-league return.

Alas, it will not be. At least not with the Red Sox:

Prior made 19 appearances for the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox, throwing 25 innings and allowing just 15 hits while striking out 38. That’s very good. Not good: He walked 23 hitters in those 25 innings.

Prior turns 32 next month, and his career might be over.

For more on the Red Sox, please visit Over The Monster and SB Nation Boston.

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