Romy Gonzalez #23 of the Boston Red Sox high fives Tyler O'Neill #17
As the Boston Red Sox gear up for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium, they are set to welcome back a crucial asset to their lineup: slugger Tyler O’Neill. Entering Monday’s game, the Red Sox find themselves 2.5 games behind the Royals for the third spot in the American League Wild Card standings, making this series crucial to their playoff aspirations.
O’Neill’s return to the lineup is timely and significant. After missing two games due to illness, O’Neill is expected to make his return on Monday night, according to Adam London of NESN. Although he wasn’t utilized on Sunday, O’Neill was available to pinch hit in the series finale against the Texas Rangers, and it is anticipated that he will start against the Royals.
Before his illness, O’Neill last appeared on the field on Friday night in Texas. His absence was felt over the weekend, as the Red Sox missed his powerful bat. The illness that sidelined him might also be affecting teammate Rob Refsnyder, adding a layer of uncertainty to the Red Sox’s roster.
At 29, O’Neill is enjoying a strong season, with a slash line of .268/.357/.544, including 22 home runs and 45 RBIs. His return is expected to provide a significant boost to the Red Sox’s lineup, which will be crucial as they aim to gain ground in the tightly contested Wild Card race.
With the Red Sox looking to turn their fortunes around in Kansas City, having O’Neill’s power back in the fold could be the difference-maker they need to secure a crucial series win and propel their playoff hopes forward.
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