UPDATE: Boston Red Sox rookie Roman Anthony left the game against the Cleveland Guardians on July 25, 2023, due to urgent left oblique tightness. The incident occurred in the bottom of the fourth inning when Anthony was seen grabbing his lower back after a swing, prompting immediate concern from teammates and fans at Fenway Park.
With the Red Sox just 2.5 games behind the first-place Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East, Anthony’s exit could have significant implications for the team’s playoff aspirations. He did not return to the field in the top of the fifth inning, with Nate Eaton stepping in to replace him in right field.
Anthony, only 21 years old, has been a crucial player for Boston since his call-up in June. He has been hitting at an impressive .291 average with an .861 OPS, along with eight home runs and 31 RBIs. Earlier this season, he was recognized as baseball’s No. 1 prospect, and he later signed a substantial eight-year, $130 million extension with the team.
The urgency surrounding Anthony’s injury is heightened by the recent loss of teammate Marcelo Mayer, who underwent season-ending wrist surgery earlier this month. Mayer was a highly anticipated prospect, ranked No. 6 in baseball, and his absence has already been felt in the Red Sox lineup. Additionally, Kristian Campbell, who began the season as the starting second baseman, was demoted to Triple-A Worcester after struggling early on.
As the Red Sox continue their push for a playoff spot, fans and officials alike will be watching closely for updates on Anthony’s condition. The team has not provided a timeline for his return, and the impact of this injury remains to be seen.
Stay tuned for more developments on this breaking story as the Red Sox navigate this critical moment in their season.
