Tuesday marked a promising step forward for the Boston Red Sox’s minor‑league pipeline at the Worcester Red Sox. Outfielder Roman Anthony, who has not appeared in a major‑league game since May 4, delivered a two‑run home run and three RBIs to help Worcester defeat the RailRiders 8-5.
Anthony arrived in Worcester after a brief four‑game stint at Double‑A Portland, where he went 3‑for‑11 with a home run, a double and three RBIs, posting a .993 OPS. He said his goal is to return to the majors “as soon as possible,” and his performance in Worcester gave fans a clear sign of that intent.
Anthony’s game‑by‑game impact
Batting second and starting in left field, Anthony opened the game with a line‑drive single on a full count, slipping the ball between shortstop and third base. In the second inning, he drew a four‑pitch walk with the bases loaded, driving in a run. After striking out in his third plate appearance, Anthony rebounded in the seventh inning, crushing a home run to right‑center field after getting ahead in the count. He finished the night 2‑for‑4 with a home run, a walk, three RBIs and two strikeouts.
Trevor Story’s ongoing rehab challenges
Veteran shortstop Trevor Story, who has more than 1,100 major‑league games under his belt, continued to struggle in his Triple‑A rehab assignment. Story went 0‑for‑4 with two strikeouts, a walk and an RBI. He walked with the bases loaded in the second inning – his first walk since joining Worcester – but failed to make solid contact in his other at‑bats, striking out twice and grounding out once.
Story’s Triple‑A batting average has slipped to .160, and his OPS sits at .352 over seven games. Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said the club will “check in” with Story after Tuesday’s game and consider a possible call‑up for the series finale in Miami on Wednesday. However, the recent performance does not compel an immediate promotion.
Kiner‑Falefa’s modest progress
Third baseman Isiah Kiner‑Falefa also saw limited action, finishing 1‑for‑3 with a double, two walks and two strikeouts. His double in the fourth inning helped extend Worcester’s lead, and his walks contributed to Anthony’s go‑ahead homer. Kiner‑Falefa’s batting average rose from .077 to .125 after the game, though his overall OPS remains modest at .705.
Before his forearm injury, Kiner‑Falefa was hitting .277 in 47 major‑league games this season. The Red Sox are unlikely to rush his promotion until he demonstrates sustained health and success against Triple‑A pitching.
What’s next for the Red Sox’s rehab players?
The Worcester game offered a glimpse of the talent the Red Sox hope to draw upon as the major‑league club navigates the latter part of the season. Anthony’s power display suggests he could be a viable option for a call‑up if a roster spot opens. Story’s extensive experience still makes him a candidate, but his recent struggles mean the front office will likely wait for clearer signs of readiness. Kiner‑Falefa remains a depth piece, with his health the primary factor in any promotion decision.
Fans in Worcester and the broader Red Sox community will be watching closely as the rehab assignments progress, hoping the performances translate into added depth for the big‑league club.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
