Masataka Yoshida #7 of the Boston Red Sox
Red Sox Face Tough Roster Decisions with Opening Day Approaching
With Opening Day just two weeks away, the Boston Red Sox have some tough choices to make as key players return to the lineup.
Rafael Devers made his spring debut on Saturday, signaling that he should be ready for Opening Day. However, given his ramp-up process, Boston could opt to ease him in as the designated hitter to start the season.
Outfielder Wilyer Abreu also returned to action, which could create a logjam in the outfield. That situation could directly impact Masataka Yoshida, who is still working his way back after undergoing shoulder surgery.
Where Does Yoshida Fit?
Yoshida has been hitting in games and showing progress, but he has yet to play in the outfield this spring. His throwing remains a work in progress, and if Devers occupies the DH role to start the season, Yoshida’s path to playing time becomes unclear.
Could he begin the year on the Injured List to buy time? Or would Boston consider making a move?
The Boston Globe’s Peter Abraham noted that a trade “isn’t impossible” but doesn’t seem likely.
“Yoshida has yet to appear in the outfield as his surgically repaired right shoulder gains strength,” Abraham wrote. “And there’s no need for a left-handed hitting DH with Rafael Devers in that role. So what now?
“Yoshida could open the season on the IL, then slide into the outfield mix over time. A trade isn’t impossible, but good luck finding a partner given the three years and $55.8 million left on his contract.”
A Clouded Future
Yoshida is in the third year of his five-year, $90 million contract, and his role remains a question mark. If he isn’t ready for the outfield, the Red Sox will have to make a difficult decision about how to handle his situation.
With Opening Day fast approaching, all eyes are on Boston’s roster puzzle—and how Yoshida fits into the equation.
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