After being drafted by the Red Sox in the second round out of TCU in July, left-handed pitcher Payton Tolle has been focusing on baseball’s latest trending pitch—the sweeper—while training at the JetBlue Park complex in Fort Myers. “We started working on a sweeper grip,” Tolle explained. “To me, that’s the new pitch in baseball. Everyone wants to learn how to throw it well because it can be very effective.”
Tolle is now the highest-ranked prospect from Boston’s 2024 draft class following the Red Sox’s trade of outfielder Braden Montgomery (12th overall pick) to the White Sox. The 6-foot-6, 270-pounder was selected 50th overall and signed to a $2 million bonus, above the $1.846 million slot value. Known for his four-pitch arsenal, including a fastball, slider, changeup, and curveball, Tolle entered the organization with the physical traits of a potential workhorse starter. MassLive recently listed him as one of the top nine Red Sox prospects poised to break out in 2025 and potentially land a spot on Baseball America’s Top 100 list.
While in Fort Myers, Tolle also worked on refining his changeup. “It’s trial and error with some grips and figuring out what works for my arm slot,” Tolle said. “But sweeper and the changeup were the main focuses this summer.” He also discussed his slider, which he noted “went through an identity crisis” during his final season at TCU as he tried to determine whether to throw it harder for a tighter break or slower with more depth.
At TCU, Tolle threw his fastball nearly 75% of the time, posting a 3.21 ERA with 125 strikeouts in 81 ⅓ innings. He throws his four-seamer in the 90-96 mph range, preferring to settle around 91-93 mph. Tolle’s above-average extension helps his fastball appear faster, making it tough for hitters, particularly when working at the top of the strike zone. He also utilizes a curveball as an off-speed option, especially when his slider wasn’t breaking as expected.
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow praised Tolle’s size and unique release traits. “Big, projectable body,” Breslow said in July. “He’s got some unique release traits and some characters that we really like.”
Tolle, weighing in at 270 pounds, is eager to begin his professional career. Reflecting on his college days, he mentioned, “In college, I always wanted to be the guy. I want you to stick me out there until I look like I’m about to pass out.” As he prepares for his professional debut, Tolle expressed his excitement for the competition ahead. “I’m ready to start playing in games again,” he said.
