Help could soon arrive for the Boston Red Sox as several key contributors work their way back from long-term injuries. Interim manager Chad Tracy addressed reporters before the team’s series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, highlighting the progress of multiple core lineup players who are nearing game action.
Roman Anthony and Trevor Story Closing In on Minor League Rehab Assignments
Outfielder Roman Anthony is making steady progress with his hitting program in Fort Myers, Fla., and appears close to starting a minor league rehab assignment. Anthony has been sidelined since May 4 due to a right wrist sprain that involved a partially torn tendon connected to his ring finger. While recovery plateaued for months because swinging caused discomfort, Anthony recently resumed hitting off a Trajekt pitching simulation machine, incorporating breaking balls and mixed pitches.
Meanwhile, shortstop Trevor Story is also ramping up baseball activities in Boston. Story, whose tenure with the Red Sox has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries, underwent sports hernia surgery on May 22 and has not played since May 14. Story already has a locker set up in Worcester and participated in batting practice there, signaling that he is very close to beginning rehab games.
“Same thing he’s been doing, but increasing [volume]. Continues to increase, ramp up, with more intensity and more volume of baseball activity. So he’s another one that’s getting closer. He’s doing everything and feeling much better.”
Chad Tracy, interim manager, via MLB.com
Tracy noted that the organization plans to be deliberate with the trio, gradually building their workloads from partial games with rest days to full nine-inning appearances in the field.
Masataka Yoshida Injured and Garrett Crochet Faces Long Road Back
While position players are returning to health, the Red Sox absorbed another physical blow when designated hitter Masataka Yoshida suffered a hamstring injury while sprinting into second base on a double against Pittsburgh. Yoshida, who was enjoying a productive August batting .326/.380/.512, walked off the field and is likely to land on the injured list pending further testing.
“He’s going to be down for some time, but we’ll get more clear answers on that. We’re not going to want to play [shorthanded].”
Chad Tracy, interim manager, via The Boston Globe
Opening Day starter Garrett Crochet, however, remains far from a major league return. Crochet is still restricted to throwing on flat ground from 50 to 60 feet as he recovers. Tracy cautioned that any potential return this season would likely come out of the bullpen and depend entirely on meeting strict physical benchmarks without any setbacks.
Balancing Physical Readiness and Timing at the Plate
The Red Sox are acutely aware of the challenges facing players returning from extended absences.
To prevent similar outcomes for Anthony, Story, and Kiner-Falefa, the coaching staff emphasizes getting players not just physically capable, but completely comfortable with their timing against live pitching.
“You want to make sure that guys are not just physically where they’re where they’re capable of being, but also they feel good about where they’re at timing-wise. Would love to thread the needle on that on how they’re feeling.”
Chad Tracy, interim manager, via The Boston Globe
With a homestand at Fenway Park opening against the Diamondbacks, the Red Sox will evaluate Anthony’s readiness over the weekend before cementing a firm timetable for his return to affiliate competition.
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