"It does sting, because you want to play at the highest level all the time," Tolle said. "But at the same time, it's what's going to be beneficial for me. I'm just excited to get going on the year."
The Red Sox's No. 1 prospect acknowledged the team's pitching depth, with Connelly Early (No. 3 prospect) earning the final rotation spot instead. Tolle, who had a 6.06 ERA in seven big league games last season, noted he has specific areas to improve with his off-speed pitches while continuing to develop as a starter in Triple-A.