Red Sox Take Another Big Step Towards Getting Healthy

The Boston Red Sox took another big step towards returning to full health on Saturday as outfielder Wilyer Abreu was activated from the injured list. The 24-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season in 2024.

In 53 games this season, Abreu has hit .272/.344/.485 with 6 homers and 22 RBI. Manager Alex Cora has also applauded him for his defensive play in right field. Abreu is hitting second and playing right field in Saturday's Sox lineup in Cincinnati.

Abreu's return is another promising sign for a Boston roster that has been decimated by injuries. The Red Sox got Masataka Yoshida back on June 11, while star first baseman Triston Casas is reportedly targeting July 2 to return. Offseason trade acquisition Vaughn Grissom also remains on the injured list with a right hamstring strain.

Boston has also lost several key contributors for the season. Pitchers Garrett Whitlock and Lucas Giolito won't take the field until 2025 while starting shortstop Trevor Story is also likely to miss all of 2024 with a dislocated shoulder suffered only eight games into the season. Two-time Reliever of the Year Liam Hendriks was signed to a two-year deal back in February but isn't expected to make his debut in a Red Sox uniform until late July or early August as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

In a corresponding move, Boston also optioned Bobby Dalbec to Triple-A Worcester. Dalbec has yo-yoed between Boston and Worcester. This is now the third time this season that he has been optioned to Triple-A. He has struggled at the big-league level this season, hitting a measly .133 with one home run and 8 RBI in 83 at-bats.

Despite all of their injuries, the Red Sox are only one game out of the final American League Wild Card spot, aided by a five-game winning streak that came to an end on Friday night. By introducing some important pieces back into the fold, Boston will be hoping those returnees can aid a playoff push.

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