A rocky 2025 MLB journey has forced the Boston Red Sox to rely on their youth a bit earlier than expected. The 'Big 3' of Kristian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer, and Roman Anthony have all made their big-league debuts since Opening Day, and even though Campbell is currently back in the minors, he'll likely be back in Boston sooner rather than later.
Mayer and Anthony haven't been perfect either; however, the Red Sox are clearly willing to give the duo more time to prove themselves before making another drastic move. Unfortunately, one of those young stud's season was just temporarily put on hold.
Red Sox Place 3B Marcelo Mayer on MLB Bereavement List
On Friday, the Red Sox announced that Mayer has been placed on the MLB bereavement list, per MassLive's Chris Cotillo. First baseman Nick Sogard has been recalled from Triple-A Worcester to take the former 2022 second-round pick's spot in the lineup until he returns.
Marcelo Mayer goes on the bereavement list. Nick Sogard has been recalled by the Red Sox.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) June 27, 2025
The bereavement list was designed to give players a break for personal reasons that can range from a family member being sick to the death of a loved one. Anyone using it is eligible to miss three to seven games, meaning Mayer could return to the lineup as early as Monday's outing against the Cincinnati Reds are as late as next weekend's series against the Washington Nationals.
Before his absence was announced, Mayer was slashing .208/.262/.429 with four home runs and seven RBIs in 27 games (77 at-bats). His bright spots have outweighed the occasional struggles, which include recording his first-ever three-hit performance against the Los Angeles Angels earlier this week.
Hopefully, Mayer returns to the Red Sox rejuvenated. Despite his lack of MLB experience, his presence and bat are needed if Boston is to end its playoff drought this fall. He's one of the main reasons why a chunk of the club's supporters haven't thrown in the towel on the 2025 campaign just yet.
In the meantime, Red Sox fans wish Mayer nothing but the best wishes and positive vibes regarding his upcoming absence.