Is Wilyer Abreu's Recovery Process Being Handled with Care by the Red Sox?

The Boston Red Sox are treading carefully with Wilyer Abreu as he recovers from a calf strain, remaining patient as the regular season winds down. Manager Alex Cora confirmed that Abreu, who has been sidelined since 17 August, is not expected to return before Thursday's game against the Oakland Athletics. With the Red Sox facing a crucial stretch of games, the team is prioritising Abreu's full recovery to avoid further setbacks.

Last updated: 25 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Wilyer Abreu remains sidelined with a calf strain, not expected to return before Thursday.
• Manager Alex Cora emphasizes the need for patience in Abreu's recovery process.
• Rookie Roman Anthony is also out due to an oblique strain, with a lengthy recovery ahead.
• Kyle Harrison is set to start on Saturday, showcasing the team's young talent.
• Lucas Giolito’s performance has triggered a contract option for next season.

Wilyer Abreu's Recovery Timeline

Wilyer Abreu has been a significant contributor to the Red Sox this season, posting a batting line of .253/.325/.486 over 108 games, including 22 home runs and 69 RBIs. However, since suffering a calf strain on 17 August, he has not seen the field. This absence is particularly notable as the Red Sox enter the final stretch of the regular season, making every game increasingly important.

Manager Alex Cora provided updates on Abreu's condition, stating, "He's gonna run. He's not gonna run the bases; he's gonna sprint. Do the other stuff." This indicates that while Abreu is making progress, the team is being cautious to prevent any setbacks. Cora acknowledged Abreu's soreness following a heavy running day, suggesting that the recovery process may take longer than initially hoped, but it is not necessarily unexpected.

The Impact of Abreu's Absence

Abreu's injury has compounded the challenges for the Red Sox, particularly as they also deal with another crucial injury: the oblique strain of rookie sensation Roman Anthony. Anthony's injury occurred on 2 September, with a recovery timeline projected at four to six weeks. Cora commented on Anthony's progress, noting that while he is feeling better, he remains limited to light activities, such as a "very intense 25-minute walk on the treadmill." The dual absence of these players places additional pressure on the Red Sox as they approach the end of the season.

Upcoming Schedule and Challenges

After the series against the Athletics concludes, the Red Sox will embark on a six-game road trip, first visiting Tampa Bay followed by a series in Toronto. They will conclude the regular season with a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers from 26-28 September. These games are critical for the Red Sox as they jostle for position in the playoff race.

Expectations for Remaining Games

The Red Sox will need to navigate these final games without Abreu and Anthony, relying on their depth and other players to step up. The absence of key players during such a pivotal time can significantly impact the team’s performance and playoff aspirations.

Pitching Updates

On the pitching side, Cora announced that Kyle Harrison will make his start on Saturday against the Rays. Harrison, acquired in the Rafael Devers trade, showed promise in his Red Sox debut against the Athletics, pitching three shutout innings. His development will be crucial as the Red Sox look to bolster their rotation during this critical phase of the season.

Changes in the Bullpen

Additionally, rookie Payton Tolle will transition to the bullpen following struggles in his recent starts. With a 7.84 ERA over 10.1 innings pitched, this move aims to better utilise Tolle's skills while providing him an opportunity to regain his form in a less pressurised environment.

Lucas Giolito's Contract Status

Wednesday's game also had implications for veteran pitcher Lucas Giolito. By pitching through the fourth inning, he activated a clause in his contract, turning a $14 million club option for 2026 into a $19 million mutual option for next season. Given his current performance—boasting a 10-4 record with a 3.46 ERA in 25 starts—it seems likely that Giolito will opt for free agency, where he is expected to attract interest for a multi-year deal.

Conclusion

As the Red Sox face the final games of the regular season, the challenges posed by player injuries, particularly to Wilyer Abreu and Roman Anthony, will test the team's resilience. With important games ahead, the Red Sox must find a way to rally without their key contributors, relying on both seasoned players and emerging talents to secure their playoff position. The next few weeks will be crucial for the franchise as they navigate these uncertainties while aiming for postseason success.

Will the Red Sox be able to overcome these challenges and secure a spot in the playoffs? Only time will tell. #RedSox #WilyerAbreu #MLBPlayoffs

FAQs

When is Wilyer Abreu expected to return to the lineup?

Wilyer Abreu is not expected to return before Thursday's game against the Oakland Athletics. The team is being cautious with his recovery from a calf strain.

What is the status of rookie Roman Anthony's injury?

Rookie Roman Anthony is recovering from an oblique strain, with a projected timeline of four to six weeks before he can return to gameplay.

Who is starting for the Red Sox on Saturday?

Kyle Harrison is scheduled to start for the Red Sox on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Rays. He is a promising young player acquired in the Rafael Devers trade.

What changes have been made to the Red Sox bullpen?

Rookie Payton Tolle will be moving to the bullpen following struggles in his recent starts. The team hopes this will help him regain his form.

What is the contract situation for Lucas Giolito?

Lucas Giolito has activated a mutual option for 2026 worth $19 million by pitching through the fourth inning in his recent start, likely leading him to opt for free agency instead.