On Saturday night, news came out that the Boston Red Sox had traded Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals.
The deal was officially announced on Sunday morning.
The Red Sox wrote (via X): “The #RedSox have acquired INF Curtis Mead from the Washington Nationals, in exchange for LHP Connelly Early.”
Early Makes Heartfelt Post After Red Sox Trade
GettyStarting pitcher Connelly Early #71 of the Boston Red Sox smiles in the dug out against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park on May 08, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Following the trade, Early made a heartfelt post to Instagram.
He wrote: “Boston,
Words are impossible to describe the amount of joy and happiness you have brought to my life. I play this game because baseball provides me peace and shows me how to be present no matter the result. The relationships I have made throughout the organization will forever be held in my heart. To my teammates and staff who I consider my Boston family, it’s part of it but damn has it been so good.
@nationals looking forward to having my cleats in the dirt at Nationals Park.”
There were over 12,000 likes in less than one hour.
Here’s what people were saying in the comments:
@bostonstrong_34: “Keep on grinding kid 🔥”
@natsfanatics: “Welcome to Washington, Connelly. Hope you feel the same love from Nats fans that Boston gave you.”
@spdesigns__: “Tough day for us Sox fans. Go make us proud in DC. Fan for life 🫡”
New England Sports Network: “Rooting for you always! ❤️”
@sidelinewithsarah: “Thanks for everything 🐐 your debut will forever be iconic 🙏”
@710dank: “One of my favorites to watch pitch in my 29 years of life. Love the composure and attitude. Go be great Connelly 🫡”
GettyConnelly Early #71 of the Boston Red Sox prepares to deliver a pitch during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on June 20, 2026 in Seattle, Washington.
His former Red Sox teammate Marcelo Mayer was among the first people to like the post.
Looking At Early
GettyConnelly Early #71 of the Boston Red Sox talks with the media before a game against the Detroit Tigers at Fenway Park on September 26, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Early was picked in the 5th round of the 2023 MLB Draft.
The 24-year-old is in the middle of his second MLB season (all with Boston).
Right now, he is 7-5 with a 3.44 ERA in 17 starts this year.
Connelly Early Makes Heartfelt Post After Boston Red Sox Trade To Nationals