The Boston Red Sox acquired first baseman Ryan Noda from the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday. They wasted no time making some room in Triple-A for the veteran. First base prospect Alex Binelas was released on Friday.

Binelas was part of Boston’s return in the Hunter Renfroe trade (along with Jackie Bradley Jr. and David Hamilton) with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2021. He was the more highly-regarded prospect at the time, but Hamilton surpassed him following some impressive seasons that included gaudy stolen base numbers. Renfroe was designated for assignment from his 2025 team, the Kansas City Royals, on Friday.

Binelas has put together a solid 2025 season. However, the issue is that he wasn’t playing. The 24-year-old held a .257/.366/.457 slash line with one double and two home runs. He’d driven in six runs, scored nine more, and stole one base. Despite the good production, Binelas only appeared in 13 games (41 plate appearances). It simply didn’t seem like the Red Sox were interested in seeing much from him. That was highlighted following the Triston Casas injury.

Worcester Red Sox release Alex Binelas, prospect from Hunter Renfroe trade

Although they needed to look for first baseman options, Binelas hasn’t appeared at the position since April 23. He’s appeared at first base in just four games (24 2/3 innings). Binelas has four innings at third base, 1/3 of an inning in right field, and a hefty majority of his time at DH.

It was becoming increasingly clear that the Red Sox had no plans for Binelas. Blaze Jordan has been on a ridiculous tear in Double-A and has deserved a promotion for quite some time. That was one door being knocked down. Now, the addition of Noda creates another blockage for Binelas.

Binelas has improved nicely over the last two seasons. He’s proven himself to be an intriguing bat deserving of earning a role on a major league roster. The Red Sox didn’t feel like that opportunity was with them. He’ll get a chance with another organization, though.