Boston Red Sox designated hitter Roman Anthony will not return for the rest of the 2026 postseason after sustaining new damage to his right wrist during the AL Wild Card Series opener against the New York Yankees. The 22‑year‑old struck out in both of his at‑bats before being replaced in the sixth inning of a 9‑0 loss.
Injury details and team response
Manager Chad Tracy explained that additional muscle damage was discovered in Anthony’s wrist that was not present in earlier scans. “He’s upset,” Tracy said, noting the mental toll on the young player. When asked about the possibility of surgery, Tracy replied, “As far as what treatment plans are in the future, haven’t gotten there.”
Anthony had previously missed 101 games from May 5 to August 29 due to an injury to the same hand. Tracy described intermittent discomfort since his return, saying, “There’s been periods of time since he’s come back where he’ll get a zinger and feel something. And then it dissipates and we’re good to go. That’s not been an uncommon occurrence since he’s come back. But yesterday, as you went through those two at‑bats, it got worse.”
Red Sox roster adjustments
Boston is working to replace Anthony on the active roster. Jahmai Jones is slated to lead off as the designated hitter in the upcoming game, followed by catcher Adley Rutschman, first baseman Willson Contreras, right fielder Wilyer Abreu, center fielder Ceddanne Rafaela, third baseman Caleb Durbin, second baseman Nick Sogard, shortstop Trevor Story, and left fielder Nate Eaton. Veteran pitcher Sonny Gray is scheduled to start against his former team.
Anthony’s season performance
Considered one of baseball’s premier prospects, Anthony posted a .245 batting average with five home runs, 15 RBIs and a .735 OPS over 55 games this season. The Red Sox now face a critical juncture in the best‑of‑three series without their promising rookie.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
