Boston’s rookie outfielder Roman Anthony left Tuesday night’s 11-7 win over the Cleveland Guardians with left oblique tightness and is set for an MRI, with manager Alex Cora saying the team will learn more on Wednesday.
Anthony, who struck out in the fourth inning, appeared to feel something during a check swing and began walking to the dugout before being replaced in right field by Nate Eaton in the top of the fifth. The 21-year-old said he hadn’t previously dealt with an oblique issue and felt the tightness for the first time on that at-bat.
“I felt it today on the check swing, the pitch before I swung and missed for a strikeout,” Anthony said. He noted a prior minor back tightness in early August, but said this oblique tightness feels more severe. “This is definitely worse in terms of the way it feels, but that’s right now. We’ll just have to reevaluate tomorrow and see where we are when the MRI comes back.” He added that he isn’t sure what level of concern to have or whether an injured list stint might be needed, stressing that he hasn’t experienced this before.
Since his debut on June 9, the 21-year-old rookie has been a bright spot for Boston, batting .292 with an .859 OPS over 71 games. In a tight playoff race, losing Anthony for any period would leave a notable gap in the lineup.
“It sucks, I’m hoping for the best and staying positive,” Anthony said. “But anytime I’m not out there it’s tough. It sucks.”
With the MRI pending, Boston will evaluate the next steps and consider lineup adjustments should Anthony need time to recover. If the results reveal a manageable issue, the team will aim to reintegrate him as soon as medically cleared.
Summary: Anthony exited with left oblique tightness, MRI planned for Wednesday, and Boston awaits results as they navigate a critical stretch of the season.
Additional notes:
– Anthony’s early-August back tightness previously caused him to miss two games, but the current issue is described as more concerning in sensation.
– If Anthony can return shortly, the Red Sox will look to maintain momentum in their playoff pursuit by leaning on Eaton and other outfield options while he recovers.
– The team’s update will likely shape his immediate timeline and the roster’s outfield composition in the near term.