The Red Sox are facing a challenging season with key players on the injured list, but there's a glimmer of hope as outfielder Roman Anthony and starter Garrett Crochet make steady progress in their rehabilitation. The team's cautious optimism is evident as they navigate the delicate balance between rushing players back and ensuring their full recovery.
Anthony, who suffered a ligament sprain in his right hand on May 5, is closer to returning than initially anticipated. He's been playing catch and is set to grip and swing a bat on Monday, a significant step in his recovery. Manager Chad Tracy expressed confidence, stating that everything went well with increased reps and intensity. However, Tracy also emphasized the importance of a full treatment day before the next step, highlighting the need for careful progression.
Crochet, on the other hand, is dealing with elbow fatigue and has been making strides in his comeback. After a 20-pitch bullpen session at Fenway Park, he threw a 35-pitch session in the visitors' bullpen at Truist. The next step for Crochet will be an 'up-down' bullpen session, likely on Wednesday, before facing hitters for the first time. The Red Sox are optimistic about his potential return, aiming to avoid a rehab assignment and re-insert him into the rotation after a simulated game.
The Red Sox's injured list situation extends beyond Anthony and Crochet. Left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe is a strong candidate to rejoin the team in Kansas City after a scoreless inning in a rehab outing. The team's strategy at shortstop is also in flux, with Trevor Story considering surgery and a potential 6-10 week absence. The Red Sox are exploring options, with Marcelo Mayer potentially playing a role.
In the meantime, the Red Sox are finding success with players like Willson Contreras and Payton Tolle, who dominated the Braves. The team's ability to adapt and make strategic decisions while managing injuries is crucial for their success. As the season progresses, the Red Sox will need to carefully navigate the rehabilitation process to ensure a strong finish and a competitive stance in the standings.
