Boston, MA – The Boston Red Sox announced Tuesday that catcher Adley Rutschman will not start against the Seattle Mariners due to a lingering elbow injury. Interim manager Chad Tracy confirmed the decision on WEEI, noting that Rutschman’s right elbow was hyperextended during a swing on Aug. 24 and continues to cause discomfort.
Injury timeline and recent performance
Rutschman, 28, has missed two consecutive starts. The injury first surfaced in late August against the Miami Marlins, and despite a brief return, the elbow has not fully healed. He last appeared on the field Sunday, going 0-for-4 with a strikeout in a 16-1 loss to the New York Yankees.
Since joining Boston in early August, Rutschman has struggled at the plate, batting .170 (9-for-53) over 15 games, with one home run and four RBIs. His on‑base percentage sits at .254 and his slugging at .245, resulting in a .500 OPS.
Background and trade details
The three‑time All‑Star was acquired from the Baltimore Orioles on Aug. 3 in a seven‑player trade. Earlier this season, he spent time on the injured list with left‑wrist inflammation, returning to the roster on Aug. 11 after a rehab assignment.
During his five seasons with the Orioles, Rutschman posted a .254 batting average, 69 home runs and 277 RBIs across 572 games, establishing himself as a reliable defensive presence behind the plate.
Impact on the Red Sox
With Rutschman out, the Red Sox will likely turn to backup catcher Christian Vázquez or call up a prospect from Triple‑A Worcester to handle catching duties against Seattle. The team hopes the move will give Rutschman’s elbow the rest it needs, aiming to avoid a longer‑term setback.
Boston’s front office has not indicated any timeline for Rutschman’s return, but Tracy emphasized that the health of the player is the top priority. “We want to make sure he’s fully healed before we put him back in the lineup,” Tracy said.
Looking ahead
The Red Sox will face the Mariners on Tuesday night at Fenway Park. Fans can expect a competitive game despite the lineup adjustment, as Boston seeks to rebound from recent losses and climb the American League East standings.
For updates on Rutschman’s status and the Red Sox’s roster moves, stay tuned to local sports coverage and the team’s official channels.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
