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Boston Red Sox Fantasy Baseball News
Willson Contreras Takes Batting Practice on Tuesday
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) is taking on-field batting practice on Tuesday, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Contreras is eligible to come off the 10-day injured list on Thursday, but it is to be determined whether the Red Sox will send him on a minor-league rehab assignment first. The 34-year-old veteran Venezuelan could return to Boston's starting nine as early as Friday if he skips a rehab assignment after dealing with a strained left hamstring late last month. Contreras will go back to must-start status in all fantasy leagues when he returns, as he is in the midst of a career year in his first season in Beantown. The former catcher will return to a .274/.384/.516 slash line with a .900 OPS, 26 home runs, 79 RBI, 66 runs scored, and three stolen bases across his 434 at-bats in 2026. The four-time All-Star hit only .217 (18-for-83) in the month of August, though, with three homers, three doubles, a triple, 12 RBI, 11 runs scored, 11 walks, and 26 strikeouts. With better health, Contreras could turn it around and finish his 2026 season strong in the fantasy playoffs.
Sep 8 · Source via
Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasGarrett Crochet Could be Ready for First Round of Playoffs
The Boston Globe's Tim Healey reports that Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder) is tracking towards being ready for the wild-card round of the postseason in early October. Although Crochet threw a 16-pitch bullpen session last Friday, he is unlikely to pitch in either the majors or minors before the playoffs begin. The 27-year-old southpaw has been sidelined for over three months due to left-shoulder and lat issues, with his shoulder being the more troublesome injury in 2026. Crochet should begin facing live hitters soon, but the BoSox are not going to rush him back and hope to have him available as a reliever out of the bullpen if they make the postseason. After finishing second in the American League Cy Young voting in 2025 in his first year in Beantown, Crochet only managed to make six starts for fantasy managers in 2026 while recording a 6.30 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 37 strikeouts across his 30 innings pitched. It is a disappointing end to an injury-plagued season, with fantasy managers now in the clear to drop Crochet in redraft leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetWillson Contreras Could Return From Injured List on Friday
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy told Marcos Grunfeld of ElEmergente.com that first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) will resume running this week and could be reinstated from the 10-day injured list before Friday's series opener against the Kansas City Royals. It is unclear if Contreras will go on a short minor-league rehab assignment before he returns, but if he does, he might not return against the Royals this weekend. The veteran right-handed slugger has made a quick recovery after being placed on the IL last week with a strained left hamstring. The 34-year-old Venezuelan should not be floating around on any waiver wires because of his injury, as the former catcher has been one of Boston's most consistent offensive performers in 2026 in his first year with the team. Contreras will be returning to a .274/.384/.516 slash line with an even .900 OPS, 26 home runs, 79 RBI, 66 runs scored, and three stolen bases across his 434 at-bats. Mickey Gasper has been the team's primary first baseman since Contreras landed on the shelf.
Sep 8 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasCeddanne Rafaela Absent Again on Saturday
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela (quadriceps) remains out of the starting lineup for the game on Saturday on the road against the division-rival Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards, per MLB.com. Eli White is making another start in center field and will bat eighth against Orioles right-hander Chris Bassitt. This will be the third straight game that Rafaela has missed due to soreness in his quad muscle that is not considered serious. He is considered day-to-day, and hopefully he will return to the starting nine for the series finale in Baltimore on Sunday. Fantasy managers will want to check back then. The 25-year-old native of Curaao is having a strong season in his fourth year in the majors with Boston, being named to his first All-Star squad while hitting .282/.317/.443 with a .760 OPS, 16 home runs, 70 RBI, 17 stolen bases, and 67 runs scored across 135 games and 569 plate appearances. Rafaela needs just one home run, six RBI, and four stolen bases to set career highs in all of those categories in 2026.
Sep 5 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ceddanne RafaelaGarrett Crochet Throws Bullpen on Friday
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder) threw a bullpen session of 16 pitches on Friday, marking the first time he threw off a mound in over three months, according to Ian Browne of MLB.com. Crochet opened the year as Boston's ace after finishing second in the American League Cy Young voting in 2025, but he has made just six starts in 2026 due to inflammation in his left shoulder. He should throw another side session on Tuesday of next week, but because of where we are on the calendar, the talented southpaw does not have time to stretch back out as a starter to close out the season. Crochet was a reliever in college at the University of Tennessee and in his first few seasons with the Chicago White Sox before becoming a starter in 2024, so a role out of the bullpen will not be unfamiliar to him. "The fact that he got on the mound today and threw is a really, really good sign," said interim manager Chad Tracy. It is good news that the 27-year-old could still help the team potentially get into the playoffs, but for fantasy purposes, Crochet does not have much value left in 2026. Before injuring his shoulder early this year, the two-time All-Star had a bloated 6.30 ERA with a 1.47 WHIP and 37:11 K:BB in 30 innings.
Sep 5 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetCeddanne Rafaela Still Out on Friday
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela (quadriceps) remains out of the starting lineup for the contest on Friday against the division-rival Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards, per MLB.com. Eli White will make another start in center field for the BoSox and will bat ninth against Orioles right-hander Shane Baz. It will be the second straight game that Rafaela will sit out after he was pulled from Wednesday's tilt against the Seattle Mariners early with tightness in his quad muscle. Rafaela is being considered day-to-day for now, and he could return for Game 3 of a four-game series in Baltimore on Saturday. Fantasy managers will want to check back then. The 25-year-old from Curaao is on the verge of his first 20-20 campaign in the big leagues this year, as he is currently slashing .282/.317/.443 with a .760 OPS, 16 home runs, 70 RBI, 17 stolen bases, and 67 runs scored in his 135 games and 569 plate appearances. Rafaela has been pretty consistent each month of the season and is a must-start in all fantasy formats when active for his contributions across the board in all categories.
Sep 4 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ceddanne RafaelaAnthony Eyanson Big Prize For Orioles In Adley Rutschman Deal
Since he came over to the Baltimore Orioles organization from the Boston Red Sox in the Adley Rutschman deal, pitching prospect Anthony Eyanson has been lights out pitching for Orioles' Double-A affiliate the Chesapeake Baysox. In five starts with Chesapeake, Eyanson has a 2-1 record with a 2.00 ERA and 1.04 WHIP with 40 strikeouts in 27 innings pitched. The right-hander was equally as dominant with the Red Sox this season, pitching to a 4-0 record at Double-A Portland with a 1.69 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. Eyanson is now the No. 2 prospect on the Orioles and features a 60-grade fastball with a 65-grade slider and 55-grade curveball. The 21-year-old has shown great strikeout upside in the minor leagues with his slider being a big potential wipeout pitch. He still looks maybe a year away, however, from joining the Orioles and potentially featuring in their starting rotation.
Sep 4 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanAdley Rutschman Goes Deep Twice in Return From Injury
After missing the previous three games with an elbow injury, Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman broke a recent slump and returned with a bang on Thursday to help beat his former team, the Baltimore Orioles, by a score of 6-5 at Camden Yards. Rutschman went 2-for-4 at the plate with two solo home runs and three RBI on the night to raise his season average to .240 and his OPS to .741. It was a much-needed turnaround for a player who has never really been able to hit his stride in 2026 due to injuries. The 28-year-old switch-hitter and former first overall pick in 2019 from Oregon State came into Thursday's series opener against Baltimore with a weak .237/.318/.400 slash line with a .718 OPS, only nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 35 runs scored in 300 at-bats. The three-time All-Star had been even worse in 15 games since being traded to the BoSox, going 9-for-59 (.170) with a homer, six walks, and 15 strikeouts. The Red Sox gave up a lot to secure Rutschman as their catcher of the future, and they are hoping his bat begins to heat up as they push to make the postseason.
Sep 3 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanAdley Rutschman Returns From Elbow Injury to Face Old Team
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (elbow) is back behind the plate to catch left-hander Jake Bennett and will hit third in Thursday's series opener against his former team, the Baltimore Orioles, and right-hander Brandon Young, according to MLB.com. Rutschman is returning to action after missing the last three games with an elbow injury that also caused him to miss three games last week. It is an injury that the 28-year-old switch-hitter might have to battle for the remainder of the 2026 season, which is not what fantasy managers want to hear in what has already been a disappointing campaign for the former first overall pick from Oregon State. In 300 total at-bats this year, Rutschman is slashing .237/.318/.400 with a .718 OPS, nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 35 runs scored for the O's and Red Sox. The three-time All-Star has been even worse since being traded to Boston, going 9-for-53 (.170) with a homer, a double, four RBI, five runs scored, six walks, and 15 strikeouts in 15 games played. Fantasy managers may want to keep him benched until he shows signs of life at the plate.
Sep 3 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanCeddanne Rafaela Sitting With Quad Injury
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela (quadriceps) is out of the team's starting lineup for Thursday's series opener against the division-rival Baltimore Orioles, per MLB.com. Rafaela will sit out at least one game after he was pulled in the seventh inning in Wednesday's contest with tightness in his quad muscle. For now, fantasy managers should consider the young outfielder to be day-to-day and check back on him to see if he is available for Game 2 of the series in Baltimore on Friday. Eli White will make the start in center field for the BoSox and will bat eighth against Orioles right-hander Brandon Young. The 25-year-old Rafaela has been a must-start in fantasy leagues as a first-time All-Star in 2026, as he entered Thursday's tilt with a .282/.317/.443 slash line with a career-best .760 OPS, 16 home runs, 70 RBI, 17 stolen bases, and 67 runs scored across 135 games and 569 plate appearances. Rafaela has been just as solid so far in the second half of 2026, hitting .285 (55-for-195) with eight homers, 10 doubles, 31 RBI, 26 runs scored, and five steals in 45 games. Hopefully, he will be back in Boston's lineup on Friday.
Sep 3 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ceddanne RafaelaIs Sonny Gray's Second-Half Slide a Cause for Concern?
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Sonny Gray has had an excellent season overall in 2026, recording a 16-4 record with a 2.82 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and 128 strikeouts across 143 2/3 innings (25 starts). However, the 36-year-old's numbers have fallen off slightly in the second half of the season. Across 48 innings since the All-Star break, Gray has pitched to a 3.38 ERA and 1.33 WHIP while posting a middling 21.1% strikeout rate. Gray has allowed four earned runs or more in three out of his last seven starts after allowing four earned runs just once in his first 18 outings of the year. The veteran right-hander is no longer a high-end source of strikeouts for fantasy managers, and his elite ERA is largely due to his 83.7% strand rate, which is well above his career mark of 73.5%. With his overall numbers still excellent, fantasy managers may have a chance to sell high on Gray ahead of the stretch run.
Sep 2 · Source via Boston Red Sox Sonny GrayCeddanne Rafaela Leaves Early Wednesday With Quad Tightness
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela (quadriceps) left Wednesday's 8-3 loss to the Seattle Mariners early with tightness in his quadriceps muscle, interim manager Chad Tracy told Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Rafaela attempted to stay in the game, but in a blowout, the Red Sox decided to play it safe. Before leaving, Rafaela went 1-for-3 at the plate. He was replaced in center field by Eli White. It does not sound like Rafaela's injury is all that serious, so fantasy managers should consider him day-to-day for now and check back on Thursday to see if he is available for the series opener against the division-rival Baltimore Orioles. The 25-year-old is having a fine season in 2026, which is his first as an All-Star, as he came into Wednesday's contest slashing .282/.317/.444 with a career-high .761 OPS, 16 home runs, a league-leading 32 doubles, 70 RBI, 17 stolen bases, and 67 runs scored across 134 games and 566 plate appearances. Rafaela still has a shot at his first 20-20 campaign in the big leagues, which is why he is rostered in over 90% of Yahoo leagues as a multi-category contributor.
Sep 2 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ceddanne RafaelaGarrett Crochet Likely to Throw a Bullpen This Weekend
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder, lat) will likely throw a bullpen session this weekend, interim manager Chad Tracy told Marcos Grunfeld of ElEmergente.com. Crochet is ready to take the next step in his throwing program after playing catch off the mound at Fenway Park on Tuesday. With the Red Sox still in the hunt for a playoff spot in September, they have not shut down Crochet, who has been sidelined since late May with shoulder and lat issues. Once the 27-year-old southpaw returns -- he will likely need a short minor-league rehab assignment first -- he is expected to be used in a relief role, which will pretty much kill what little remaining fantasy value he has left. Crochet finished second in the American League Cy Young voting in 2025 in his first year in Beantown after going 18-5 with a 2.59 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 255:46 K:BB in 32 starts, but he has managed to start only six games in his second year with the BoSox. In those six games, he posted a 6.30 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 37:11 K:BB in 30 innings. Crochet is still rostered in 77% of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 2 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetAdley Rutschman Sitting Out Another Day With Elbow Injury
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (elbow) will miss another game on Wednesday against the visiting Seattle Mariners, per MLB.com. Connor Wong will do the catching for left-hander Patrick Sandoval and will hit out of the nine spot in the batting order against Mariners right-hander Bryce Miller. It will be the third straight missed game for Rutschman, who has played in just three of the team's last nine games due to a hyperextended right elbow that he suffered on a swing early last week. It has been that kind of year for the former first overall pick from Oregon State. Rutschman only has 300 at-bats in his fifth year in the league and is slashing .237/.318/.400 with a .718 OPS, nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 35 runs scored in 82 games with the Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles. He has not been able to get on track offensively amidst his injuries in 2026, and he has gone just 9-for-53 (.170) with a homer, a double, four RBI, five runs scored, six walks, and 15 strikeouts in 15 games since joining the BoSox in a blockbuster trade in early August. Fantasy managers should check back on Thursday to see if Rutschman is ready to rejoin the lineup for the series opener at Camden Yards against his former team, the Orioles.
Sep 2 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanAdley Rutschman Out With Ongoing Elbow Injury
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said on WEEI on Tuesday that catcher Adley Rutschman's (elbow) hyperextended elbow is still an issue and probably will be for the rest of the season, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Rutschman is out of the starting lineup on Tuesday for the second day in a row against the visiting Seattle Mariners as a result. Connor Wong will do the catching for right-handed rookie Jedixson Paez and will bat ninth against Mariners right-hander Bryan Woo. Rutschman hyperextended his elbow on a swing last week and missed two games. It does not sound like it is an injured list situation for the 28-year-old switch-hitter, but it is not going to help him get back on track offensively to close out what has been a frustrating 2026 campaign for the former first overall pick. Since joining the BoSox from the Orioles at the trade deadline, the three-time All-Star has gone just 9-for-53 (.170) at the plate with a homer, a double, four RBI, five runs scored, six walks, and 15 strikeouts in 15 games played. Overall, he is slashing a disappointing .237/.318/.400 with a .718 OPS, nine homers, 51 RBI, and 35 runs scored in 82 total games.
Sep 1 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanRed Sox Promote Jedixson Paez, Designate Brett Harris
The Red Sox announced Tuesday that they've selected the contract of righty Jedixson Paez from Triple-A Worcester. He'll start tonight's game in what will be his Red Sox debut. Infielder Brett Harris was designated for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster. Boston also reinstated utilityman Isiah Kiner-Falefa from the 60-day injured list. [...]
Sep 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Boston Red Sox Brett Harris Jedixson PaezGarrett Crochet Progresses to Playing Catch Off a Mound
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder, lat) has begun playing catch off a mound, per Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald. It's largely been a lost season due to injury for Crochet, who has pitched just 30 innings (six starts) in 2026 due to shoulder and lat injuries. However, the 27-year-old continues to progress towards a potential return before the end of the regular season. Crochet was one of the best pitchers in baseball in 2025, recording an 18-5 record with a 2.59 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 255 strikeouts across 205 1/3 innings (32 starts). While he may not be stretched out to a full starter's workload down the stretch of 2026, Crochet has experience working out of the bullpen and could be an impactful piece as a reliever for Boston. Fantasy managers in redraft leagues are unlikely to get much value from Crochet in 2026, but his draft stock entering 2027 would likely rise considerably if he's able to return and be effective in October.
Aug 31 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetRed Sox Place Willson Contreras on Injured List With Hamstring Strain
The Boston Red Sox announced on Monday that they placed first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) on the 10-day injured list with a strained left hamstring and recalled catcher/first baseman Mickey Gasper from Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding move. Gasper will start at first base and bat second for the BoSox in their series opener on Monday at Fenway Park against the Seattle Mariners and right-hander George Kirby. Contreras was pulled from Sunday's series finale against the New York Yankees with tightness in his hamstring, and he will now miss at least the next 10 days. The 34-year-old Venezuelan reportedly had been playing through the issue for around a month, which helps explain why he went 3-for-27 (.111) with two walks and eight strikeouts in his last seven games. Overall, Contreras has been one of Boston's most consistent offensive producers in 2026 in his first year with the team, though, slashing .274/.384/.516 with a .900 OPS, 26 homers, 79 RBI, 66 runs scored, and three stolen bases in 434 at-bats. Fantasy managers must keep the four-time All-Star stashed in all formats.
Aug 31 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasSonny Gray's Next Start Pushed Back to Saturday
The Boston Red Sox are pushing right-hander Sonny Gray's next start to Saturday in Baltimore against the division-rival Orioles to give him nine days of rest, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. It takes away a potential two-start week for his fantasy managers. Gray is not dealing with anything physically, but the BoSox want to give their ace a little extra breather with the final month of the regular season coming. The 36-year-old veteran has been excellent in 2026 in his first year in Beantown, going 16-4 with a 2.82 ERA (3.54 FIP) and 1.18 WHIP with 128 strikeouts and 37 walks in 143 2/3 innings pitched across 25 starts. His 16 wins lead the league. Gray stumbled to end the month of July, allowing nine earned runs in his last two starts of the month against the Toronto Blue Jays and Athletics, but he turned it around in August, going 3-2 with a 2.40 ERA (3.28 FIP) with seven walks and 30 strikeouts in 30 innings over five starts. Saturday will be Gray's first outing against the O's, a team that is middle of the pack in OPS but with the fourth-most strikeouts in the league. Gray should be in all starting fantasy lineups this weekend.
Aug 31 · Source via Boston Red Sox Sonny GrayWillson Contreras Experiencing Hamstring Tightness
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring), who exited during the seventh inning of Sunday's loss against the New York Yankees, was dealing with hamstring tightness, interim manager Chad Tracy told Christopher Smith of MassLive.com. "The hamstring was a little tight," Tracy said. "Just felt like at that point of the game, I don't want to push it. So we got him out of there." It's worth noting that the Red Sox were trailing 6-0 at the time of Contreras' exit, and it's unclear whether he would have been able to keep playing if the score were closer. We wouldn't be surprised to see him get the day off Monday against the Seattle Mariners, and we also can't rule out an IL stint if the injury persists or worsens in the next day. Nick Sogard would be the most likely candidate to play first base in Contreras' absence, but the team could also recall Mickey Gasper from Triple-A.
Aug 30 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasTrevor Story Reinstated From Injured List, Starting Against Yankees
The Boston Red Sox reinstated shortstop Trevor Story (hernia) from the 60-day injured list on Sunday, according to The Boston Globe's Tim Healey. Story is immediately back in the team's starting lineup, starting at shortstop and batting eighth versus the division-rival New York Yankees and right-hander Will Warren in the series finale. The 33-year-old veteran is returning to the major-league roster for the first time since mid-May after having surgery to fix a sports hernia. Before his injury, the two-time All-Star was struggling with a .206/.244/.303 slash line, a .547 OPS, three home runs, 19 RBI, 16 runs scored, four stolen bases, eight walks, and 57 strikeouts across 41 games and 176 plate appearances. The 11-year veteran had a resurgent 2025 campaign in Beantown with 25 home runs, 96 RBI, and 31 stolen bases in 157 regular-season games, so fantasy managers should not be completely ignoring him because of his rough start to 2026. The BoSox will likely give him every chance to return as their starting shortstop, but he did go just 6-for-35 (.171) with 11 strikeouts in 10 games on his minor-league rehab assignment. Story is currently rostered in 37% of Yahoo leagues.
Aug 30 · Source via Boston Red Sox Trevor StoryRoman Anthony Activated and Starting on Sunday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) has been activated from the 60-day injured list and is serving as the designated hitter and batting leadoff for Sunday's series finale in the Bronx against the division-rival New York Yankees and right-hander Will Warren, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Anthony, who was the team's top outfield prospect a year ago, is returning to the big leagues for the first time since early May after suffering a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger. The Red Sox could ease Anthony back into the fold as the DH after his long layoff, although he looked good at the plate in eight minor-league rehab games, posting a .967 OPS. The 22-year-old former second-rounder in 2022 was only hitting .229 (15-for-109) with a homer, five RBI, 12 runs scored, and two steals in 30 games earlier this year before injuring his finger, but he has high-end power/speed upside and could be a difference-maker in the final month of the regular season for both fantasy managers and the BoSox as they seek a playoff spot. Anthony had a .292/.396/.463 slash line with an .859 OPS, eight homers, 32 RBI, 48 runs, and four stolen bases in his first 71 major-league games in 2025.
Aug 30 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyAdley Rutschman Returns for Series Opener Against Yankees
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (elbow) will get his first taste of the division rivalry against the New York Yankees in Friday's series opener as he returns from a hyperextended elbow earlier this week. Rutschman will do the catching for left-hander Patrick Sandoval and will hit fifth against Yankees right-hander Cam Schlittler. Fantasy managers should not be itching to get the 28-year-old backstop back into their starting lineups on Friday, especially going up against Schlittler, who has been one of the best pitchers in baseball in 2026. It has been a frustrating season for Rutschman, who has been banged up and has hit just .236 (68-for-288) with nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 33 runs scored in 79 games and 331 plate appearances. Since coming to Beantown in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles on Aug. 3, Rutschman has gone just 6-for-41 (.146) at the plate with a homer, a double, four RBI, three runs scored, six walks, and 12 strikeouts. He has faced Schlittler only three times in his big-league career and has one hit against him.
Aug 28 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanRoman Anthony Unlikely to Return to Red Sox on Friday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) is unlikely to return from the 60-day injured list before the team's series opener on Friday against the division-rival New York Yankees, according to Tommy Cassell. Anthony is still at Triple-A Worcester on Friday and could continue his minor-league rehab assignment through the weekend. If Anthony remains with the WooSox through the weekend, he could come off the IL for Monday's series opener at Fenway Park against the Seattle Mariners. Fantasy managers have been patient all year long, as the former top outfield prospect has been out since early May due to a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger. The good news is that the left-handed power/speed threat is on the verge of a return to the big leagues, and he has gone 7-for-23 at the plate with two home runs in seven rehab games on the farm. Although the 22-year-old was hitting just .229 (25-for-109) with a homer, five RBI, and 12 runs scored in 109 at-bats this year before his injury, he should be picked up off the waiver wire everywhere that he is available. Anthony is currently rostered in just under 80% of Yahoo leagues.
Aug 28 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyAdley Rutschman Out for Second Straight Day on Wednesday
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (elbow) will sit out for a second straight game on Wednesday versus the Miami Marlins, per MLB.com. Connor Wong will do the catching for right-hander Sonny Gray and will hit ninth for the BoSox against Marlins right-hander Ryan Gusto. Rutschman's elbow injury is not considered serious after he hyperextended his arm on a swing in the series opener in Miami on Monday. Boston has a scheduled day off on Thursday, so Rutschman could be back in the starting nine for Friday's big series opener against the division-rival New York Yankees. The 28-year-old switch-hitting backstop, who was the first overall pick by the Baltimore Orioles in 2019 out of Oregon State, has been unable to get into a groove in 2026 and has been set back by injuries along the way. He enters Wednesday's action with a .236/.320/.406 slash line with only nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 33 runs scored in 79 games and 331 plate appearances. Since joining the Red Sox at the trade deadline on Aug. 3, Rutschman has gone 6-for-41 (.146) with a homer, a double, four RBI, three runs scored, six walks, and 12 strikeouts. Boston is banking on the three-time All-Star eventually turning things around at the plate.
Aug 26 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanNick Sogard Emerging as a Deep-League Target Amidst August Hot Streak
Across 160 plate appearances in 2026, Boston Red Sox infielder Nick Sogard is hitting .275/.389/.405 with two home runs, 10 RBI, and 20 runs scored. The 28-year-old has spent much of the season in the minors, logging 224 plate appearances between Double-A and Triple-A. However, Sogard appears to have taken over a near-everyday role as Boston's leadoff hitter in recent weeks. Sogard's carrying tool is his ability to get on base, as he's posted a 15.6% walk rate in the big leagues and logged a 19.3% walk rate during his time at Triple-A. While Sogard is unlikely to provide much power production for fantasy managers, he profiles as an asset in both batting average and runs scored, as long as he continues to set the table for Boston's potent lineup. In deeper leagues, Sogard has value on the waiver wire as a versatile depth piece.
Aug 26 · Source via Boston Red Sox Nick SogardRoman Anthony Thinks he Could Return on Friday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger), who is on a minor-league rehab assignment at Triple-A Worcester, said he "has no flight booked" to return to the big-league squad, but he feels close to ready and thinks he could return for Friday's series opener against the division-rival New York Yankees, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Anthony has been out since early May due to a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger, but he has gone 3-for-11 with a homer in four rehab games with Double-A Portland before moving to Worcester this week. The 22-year-old former top prospect will be an everyday starter for the BoSox when he returns to the major-league roster, but it is unclear if that will happen this weekend or sometime next week. If Anthony is floating around on your league's waiver wire, scoop him up immediately for his power/speed upside, even if it is only for the final month of the 2026 regular season. The former second-rounder in 2022 is rostered in 77% of Yahoo leagues at the moment.
Aug 25 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyAdley Rutschman Out on Tuesday With Elbow Injury
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (elbow) is out of the starting lineup for Tuesday's contest against the Miami Marlins after taking an aggressive swing in the series opener on Monday and feeling something in his right elbow, according to Christopher Smith of MassLive.com. Interim manager Chad Tracy said the team is playing it safe with Rutschman on Tuesday and that there is "no concern." "Adley's got a little irritation. Took a really aggressive swing. He kind of hyperextended his elbow. Nothing to be alarmed about. Just felt like I don't want to make that worse. Nothing I'm concerned about more just a little soreness. Like I don't want to irritate that more. So I made the decision like, 'Let's keep him out.'" Connor Wong will do the catching for left-hander Payton Tolle and will bat ninth on Tuesday against Marlins right-hander Tyler Phillips. The 28-year-old Rutschman has had an injury-plagued and disappointing 2026 campaign, and he has gone just 6-for-41 (.146) at the plate with a homer, a double, four RBI, three runs, six walks, and 12 strikeouts in 12 games since the Red Sox acquired him from the Baltimore Orioles at the trade deadline in early August. Overall, the three-time All-Star has slashed .236/.320/.406 with a .726 OPS, nine home runs, 51 RBI, and 33 runs scored in 79 total games and 331 plate appearances. Rutschman is day-to-day and could return as early as Wednesday.
Aug 25 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanFranklin Arias Knocking on MLB Door Amid Triple-A Surge
Boston Red Sox infield prospect Franklin Arias has yet to slow down since moving up to Triple-A and is now firmly in position to debut over the final month of the regular season. Over his last 18 games at Triple-A Worcester, the top-ranked prospect in the Boston system has posted an elite .333/.397/.536 line with five doubles, three home runs, and a 16:7 K:BB. Overall, through 23 total games at this level, Arias carried a strong .293 AVG with an .846 OPS. Earlier this season, the No. 7-ranked prospect on MLB.com spent his time at the Double-A level, where he posted a .318/.407/.587 line with a .994 OPS, 17 doubles, 19 home runs, and five stolen bases. Given his current trajectory, Arias is well-positioned to reach Boston as they look to secure a spot in the postseason.
Aug 24 · Source via Prospects Boston Red Sox Franklin AriasRed Sox Activate Eduardo Rivera From Restricted List
TODAY: Rivera was activated from the restricted list and returned to the Triple-A IL, according to the Boston Globe's Tim Healey. AUGUST 18: The Red Sox have placed left-hander Eduardo Rivera on the restricted list, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. The southpaw had to tend to a personal matter, reports Chris Cotillo of [...]
Aug 23 · MLB Trade Rumors Boston Red Sox Eduardo RiveraAndruw Monasterio a Useful Deep-League Depth Piece to Target on the Waiver Wire
Across 286 plate appearances this season, Boston Red Sox infielder Andruw Monasterio is hitting .261/.319/.424 with six home runs, 37 RBI, 31 runs scored, and four stolen bases. The 29-year-old has been hot since the start of July, hitting .305 with three homers, 25 RBI, 16 runs scored, and three stolen bases across his last 149 trips to the plate. Monasterio has seen an extended stretch of regular playing time as Boston's everyday shortstop, which will likely come to an end with the impending return of Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story (abdomen) from the 60-day injured list. However, Monasterio's ability to play every infield position should allow him to still earn fantasy-relevant playing time. Monasterio's profile at the plate may not jump off the page in any one area, but he brings balanced, high-floor production and multi-positional eligibility. In deep leagues, he profiles as a valuable depth piece for fantasy managers to target on the waiver wire.
Aug 20 · Source via Boston Red Sox Andruw MonasterioRoman Anthony Set to Hit Leadoff Once He Returns from Injury
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said that the team is preparing to deploy outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) as a leadoff hitter once he returns from injury, per Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe. Anthony has not played since early May due to a partially torn tendon in his finger. However, the 22-year-old began a minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Portland on Tuesday and appears to be on the doorstep of a return to the big leagues. Across 130 plate appearances in 2026 before getting injured, Anthony hit .229/.354/.321 with one home run, five RBI, 12 runs scored, and two stolen bases. He owns a 13.9% walk rate and a .383 OBP across 433 career MLB plate appearances. Ahead of Anthony's impending return to the Red Sox lineup, he projects as a high-upside bat for fantasy managers to target on the waiver wire in leagues where he may have been dropped.
Aug 18 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyTrevor Story Could Make His Big-League Return on Friday
Boston Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story (abdomen) said he could be active "as early as Friday," per Chris Cotillo of MassLive. Cotillo reports that the team's plan for Story is to have him rehab at Triple-A Worcester on Tuesday and Wednesday before being re-evaluated. Story has been on the injured list since mid-May after undergoing sports hernia surgery, but he appears to be on the doorstep of a return to Boston. The 33-year-old got off to a terrible start to the 2026 season before getting injured, hitting .206 with three home runs and a 32.4% strikeout rate across his first 176 plate appearances of the year. Still, Story hit 25 home runs and stole 31 bases across 654 plate appearances in 2025 and remains a very valuable fantasy player when healthy and going well. Once Story returns, he should be rostered across most fantasy formats.
Aug 17 · Source via Boston Red Sox Trevor StoryRoman Anthony to Begin Rehab Assignment on Tuesday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) is set to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Portland on Tuesday, according to Sean McAdam of MassLive.com. It appears that Anthony is finally making progress with his finger injury that has kept him sidelined since early May. He has been rehabbing a partially torn tendon in his finger, but appears ready for game action. Given he hasn't played in months, Anthony will likely require a lengthy rehab assignment. He should return by the end of the month, but will likely require at least a week of rehab games. Fantasy managers should check back for an update on his status over the next week.
Aug 15 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyRoman Anthony Making Significant Progress, Rehab Assignment Coming
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) is making significant progress with his hitting program in Fort Myers, Fla., and is closing in on a minor-league rehab assignment, according to Ian Browne of MLB.com. Interim manager Chad Tracy said Anthony won't go on a rehab assignment this weekend, but it could happen next week. The former top outfield prospect last played on May 4, when he suffered a partially torn tendon in the joint that connects to his right ring finger. He improved to the point where he could reinitiate a hitting program a couple of weeks ago, and he's been doing all other baseball drills such as running and fielding. Anthony has hit off the Trajekt machine recently, and "everything's going well so far," Tracy said. If the 22-year-old starts a rehab assignment early next week, he could be back with the BoSox by next weekend. Having Anthony's power/speed threat would be huge for Boston as they attempt to get into the playoffs down the stretch. Although he was hitting just .229 (25-for-109) with one homer before his injury, Anthony is one of the better young power/speed outfield threats in baseball and is absolutely worth stashing now if he's floating around on your league's waiver wire.
Aug 15 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyWillson Contreras Remains in Red Sox's Lineup on Wednesday
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) has been battling a hamstring issue of late, but he's starting at first base and is batting cleanup for Boston against the division-rival Toronto Blue Jays and right-hander Jose Soriano at the Rogers Centre on Wednesday, per MLB.com. The 34-year-old four-time All-Star has been one of the team's best offensive producers in 2026 in what has been a career year, as he's currently slashing .280/.389/.523 with a .912 OPS, 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 58 runs scored, and three stolen bases across 375 at-bats. However, the Venezuelan former catcher has struggled at the plate recently, and it might have something to do with his hamstring. After going 0-for-4 on Tuesday night, Contreras has gone just 4-for-24 (.167) with no extra-base hits in seven games so far in the month of August. He will look to start to turn things around on Wednesday against a pitcher that he has never faced.
Aug 12 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasWillson Contreras Playing Through Sore Hamstring
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) hasn't looked right lately and was seen grabbing at his hamstring after flying out in his first plate appearance on Tuesday against the division-rival Toronto Blue Jays, although he stayed in the game, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Contreras has been one of the team's most consistent hitters all season long, but he has just one home run in an 18-game stretch, dating back to July 20, after going 0-for-4 with a strikeout on Tuesday night. Fantasy managers will want to check in on Contreras to see if he's active for Wednesday's contest in Toronto against right-hander Jose Soriano. The 34-year-old Venezuelan veteran and former catcher has a .280/.389/.523 slash line and a career-best .912 OPS with 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 58 runs scored, and three stolen bases in 109 games and 447 plate appearances in his first year in Beantown. Since July 25, Contreras has gone 7-for-40 (.175) with a homer, four RBI, six runs scored, 10 walks, and 17 strikeouts in 14 games. It's possible that his offensive production has suffered of late while playing at less than 100%.
Aug 12 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasRoman Anthony is Nearing Rehab Assignment
According to Tim Healy, Red Sox manager Chad Tracy said Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) is getting closer to a minor league rehab assignment. Anthony is hitting off a high-tech pitching machine, which is normally the last step before facing live pitching. He has been hitting in the batting cage and seems extremely close to getting back into game action. Anthony has been out since early May due to a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger. Barring any setbacks, Anthony has a chance to return to the Red Sox lineup by late August or early September.
Aug 11 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyKristian Campbell Heating Up at Triple-A, Could be Nearing a Return to Boston
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Kristian Campbell has been heating up at Triple-A Worcester and could be on the verge of returning to the big-league roster for the first time since his rookie season in 2025. Campbell, a fourth-rounder in 2023 from the Georgia Institute of Technology, hit .223/.319/.345 with a .664 OPS, six homers, 21 RBI, 24 runs scored, and two stolen bases in 67 games as a rookie last year after being signed to an eight-year, $60 million extension last April. The 24-year-old struggled in spring training this year, though, and has spent the entire 2026 season at Worcester, where he has hit .250/.377/.351 with a .728 OPS, five home runs, 38 RBI, five stolen bases, and 39 runs scored in 90 games across 384 plate appearances. After recording three hits for the WooSox on Sunday, Campbell is batting .269 (7-for-26) with a homer and five RBI in seven games so far in August. With eligibility at second base and the outfield, Campbell is a stash candidate in deeper fantasy baseball leagues ahead of his potential return to the big leagues for the last month and a half of the regular season.
Aug 10 · Source via Boston Red Sox Kristian CampbellAdley Rutschman Traveling With Boston, Won't Return on Monday
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (wrist) will travel with his new team to Toronto for a series against the division-rival Blue Jays, according to Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald. However, he will not be activated from the 10-day injured list on Monday. Rutschman will run through a series of workouts with the team, and the club will assess the next steps from there. The 28-year-old switch-hitting backstop has yet to debut with his new team after the BoSox acquired him in a blockbuster trade last Monday from the Baltimore Orioles, but he's nearing a return from the IL. He started a minor-league rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester on Saturday and has gone 1-for-5 at the plate with a double, two RBI, and two runs scored in his two games. Depending on how his workout goes on Monday, Rutschman could make his debut as Boston's primary catcher as early as Tuesday at the Rogers Centre. Rutschman has been battling injuries the last two years and only has eight home runs with a .251 average (62-for-247) in 2026, but he will be a massive upgrade at the catching position in Boston and could finish out the year strong for fantasy managers if he's completely healthy. He's rostered in just over 70% of Yahoo leagues.
Aug 10 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanWilyer Abreu Returns to the Lineup on Sunday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu (calf) is serving as the designated hitter and is batting third for the Red Sox in Sunday's series finale against the visiting Athletics and right-hander J.T. Ginn at Fenway Park, per MLB.com. Abreu got a much-needed day off in Saturday's loss to the A's after he was dealing with swelling in his calf and shin following Friday night's game. He'll get a day off his feet as the DH in his return to action on Sunday against a pitcher he has yet to face in the big leagues. Fantasy managers will want to get the Venezuelan outfielder back in their starting lineups in traditional leagues with Abreu hitting .409 (9-for-22) with a 1.500 OPS, four home runs, a double, nine RBI, nine runs scored, and a stolen base so far in six games in August. The 27-year-old left-handed hitter is returning to a .256/.331/.462 slash line with a .793 OPS, 20 home runs, 62 RBI, 64 runs, and seven stolen bases across his 433 at-bats in 2026 in his fourth year in the league with the Red Sox.
Aug 9 · Source via Boston Red Sox Wilyer AbreuWilyer Abreu Out on Saturday With Calf/Shin Swelling
Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu's calf/shin is swollen from Friday night, so interim manager Chad Tracy said it felt like a good time to give Abreu a day off on Saturday against the Athletics, according to Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald. The Red Sox had been looking for the right time to give the outfielder a day off during the team's 16-game stretch without a day off. Eli White is making the start in right field on Saturday and will hit sixth against A's rookie left-hander Gage Jump. Fantasy managers should consider Abreu day-to-day for now with an injury that shouldn't send him to the injured list. Check back on Sunday to see if he's ready to return for the series finale at Fenway Park. Abreu is having another fine season for the BoSox in 2026, slashing .256/.331/.462 with a .793 OPS, 20 home runs, 62 RBI, 64 runs scored, and seven stolen bases in 113 games across 492 plate appearances. He's three homers shy of setting a new career high. After slumping to a .186 average (18-for-97) with six homers and 14 RBI in 25 games in July, Abreu has gone 9-for-22 (.409) with four homers and nine RBI so far in six games in August.
Aug 8 · Source via Boston Red Sox Wilyer AbreuWillson Contreras Back in the Lineup Saturday
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (illness) is back in the lineup and batting fourth on Saturday after missing the last two games. The 34-year-old left Wednesday's game early with dizziness and a high temperature, but now, three days later, he is back in the starting lineup and batting fourth for the surging Red Sox. The 11-year veteran is having a career-best season, already hitting 23 home runs, which is one shy of his career-best total of 24 in 2019. He is looking to continue his personal-best hot streak while helping the team keep its winning streak alive and is a must-start in all formats when healthy.
Aug 8 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasAdley Rutschman to Begin a Rehab Assignment on Saturday
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (wrist) will start a minor-league rehab assignment on Saturday, according to Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald. Rutschman has been on the 10-day injured list since July 20 due to inflammation in his wrist, but now that he's on the verge of a rehab assignment, the 28-year-old switch-hitting backstop could be in line to make his debut with Boston at some point next week, barring a setback. Once he's back in the big leagues, the former first overall pick from Oregon State University will be the Red Sox's starting catcher as they look to stay hot and earn a berth in the playoffs. Boston gave up quite the prospect haul to acquire Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles on Monday, so they are banking on him returning to the form he had in Baltimore in his first couple of years in the majors. Rutschman has been an injury disappointment the last two seasons, and he has hit .251/.331/.433 with a .764 OPS, eight home runs, 47 RBI, and 30 runs scored in 67 games and 284 plate appearances in 2026. He's rostered in 70% of Yahoo leagues after fading since the start of the 2025 season.
Aug 8 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanPayton Tolle Dominant Against A's, Strikes Out 14 Batters
Boston Red Sox left-hander Payton Tolle was absolutely dominant in Friday night's 13-1 beatdown of the Athletics at Fenway Park and flirted with a perfect game early on. Tolle allowed just one earned run on two hits (one homer) while walking none and fanning a career-high 14 batters in six innings of work to pick up his seventh win of the season and lower his ERA to 3.20. Tolle's perfect-game bid was ended in the fifth inning when he allowed a solo home run to Tyler Soderstrom, but that was all the 23-year-old southpaw would allow. He had his swing-and-miss stuff going, as he generated 24 swings and misses on just 84 pitches. It was Tolle's second straight quality start. Tolle will face the division-rival Tampa Bay Rays for the third time this year in his next scheduled outing. It will be a challenge for him to earn a third straight quality start, as he's allowed seven runs (five earned) with a walk and seven strikeouts in 11 innings against the Rays in his previous two starts against them in 2025. After Friday's strong start, Tolle has a nice 3.20 ERA with a 1.10 WHIP in his 107 innings pitched over 19 starts in his first full year in the majors.
Aug 8 · Source via Prospects Boston Red Sox Payton TolleWillson Contreras Still Under the Weather on Friday
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (illness) is missing a second straight game on Friday in the series opener against the Athletics at Fenway Park due to an illness, per MLB.com. Nick Sogard will make another start at first base for the BoSox while batting leadoff on Friday against A's right-hander Jack Perkins. Contreras was pulled from Wednesday's contest early due to an illness and hasn't played since, but he should be back at some point for the series this weekend against the A's. When the 34-year-old Venezuelan returns, he'll need to be reinserted into all fantasy lineups in traditional formats as one of Boston's best all-around hitters in 2026 in his first year with the team. Contreras is currently batting a steady .288/.395/.540 with a .936 OPS, 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 57 runs scored, and three stolen bases in his 361 at-bats in 2026. Since the beginning of July, Contreras has hit .319 (23-for-72) with a 1.056 OPS, five homers, four doubles, 17 RBI, 16 runs, and a stolen base in 23 games.
Aug 7 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasAdley Rutschman Hits in the Cages on Thursday
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman (wrist) hit in the indoor cage aggressively on Thursday after throwing to the bases on the field, according to MLB.com. Rutschman has been on the 10-day injured list since July 20 with inflammation in his left wrist. The 28-year-old switch-hitting backstop is making progress, although he will still likely need a minor-league rehab assignment before making his Red Sox debut, which probably won't come until around mid-August, barring a setback. The Red Sox sent a big package of prospects to the Baltimore Orioles for Rutschman at the trade deadline on Monday, giving them a major upgrade at catcher whenever he's fully recovered from his wrist injury. Rutschman has battled injuries since last year and is hitting .251/.331/.433 with a .764 OPS, eight home runs, 47 RBI, and 30 runs scored in 67 games across 284 plate appearances this year. The BoSox are hoping the three-time All-Star can return to his pre-injury form and help the team get into the postseason. He has just 17 homers in the last two seasons combined after hitting 52 long balls in his first three years in the league with the O's.
Aug 7 · Source via Boston Red Sox Adley RutschmanGarrett Crochet Unlikely to be Stretched Out by End of September
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said that left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder, lat) stretching out to six innings by the end of September is "probably not feasible," according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. "If he's healthy and right, and he looks like Garrett Crochet, I think we'd be foolish not to consider that," Tracy said when asked if Crochet could be used as a reliever. The Red Sox plan on getting the 27-year-old two-time All-Star back before the end of the regular season, but it could come as a reliever instead of a starter, which is bad news for fantasy managers who have been stashing him in single-year formats. After finishing second in the American League Cy Young voting in 2025 in his first year in Boston, Crochet has made only six starts in 2026 and allowed 23 runs (21 earned) while walking 11 and striking out 37 in 30 innings pitched. Even if Crochet makes it back as a starter in the final month of the regular season, he won't have much time to help fantasy managers, and he'll have an extremely limited ceiling if he's not stretched all the way out.
Aug 7 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetRed Sox Release Joe La Sorsa
The Red Sox announced that left-hander Joe La Sorsa has been released. There was no previous indication he had been removed from the 40-man roster, so the club's count drops from 39 to 38. La Sorsa will be a free agent once he clears release waivers, if he hasn't already. La Sorsa, 28, began the [...]
Aug 6 · MLB Trade Rumors Boston Red Sox Joe La SorsaWillson Contreras Still Out Sick on Thursday
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (illness) remains out sick for Thursday's series finale at Fenway Park against the visiting Chicago White Sox, per MLB.com. Nick Sogard will make the start at first base for the BoSox and will hit leadoff against White Sox right-hander Luis Castillo. Contreras was feeling under the weather on Wednesday and left the contest early, and now he'll take a seat the following day as he tries to rest up. Fantasy managers will want to check back on Friday to see if the right-handed slugger is feeling good enough to return for the series opener at home against the visiting Athletics. The 34-year-old Venezuelan veteran has been a must-start in all fantasy formats in 2026 in his best season as a pro in his first year in Boston. The four-time All-Star and 11-year veteran is currently slashing .288/.395/.540 with a .936 OPS, 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 57 runs scored, and three stolen bases across 105 games and 430 plate appearances. Contreras had one of his best months in July, hitting .323 (20-for-62) with a 1.117 OPS, five homers, four doubles, 14 RBI, 14 runs, and a stolen base in 20 games played.
Aug 6 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasTriston Casas Undergoes Successful Wrist Surgery
Boston Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas (wrist) underwent successful surgery on his left wrist on Thursday, according to Tommy Cassell of the Worcester Telegram and Gazette. This most recent wrist issue is the latest in a string of injury setbacks for Casas. He ruptured the patellar tendon in his left knee in May 2025, resulting in season-ending surgery. Casas also suffered an intercostal strain while working his way back from the knee injury earlier this year and is now set to be sidelined for a significant stretch while he recovers from wrist surgery. All in all, the 26-year-old has logged just 355 MLB plate appearances since the start of the 2024 season. He was productive in a 63-game sample size in 2024, hitting .241 with 13 home runs and a 13.3% barrel rate. Still, his extensive injury history makes his future fantasy value difficult to project.
Aug 6 · Source via Boston Red Sox Triston CasasWillson Contreras Exits Early on Wednesday Due to Illness
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (illness) was removed early from his team's game against the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday due to an illness, per Chris Cotillo of MassLive. Contreras was one-for-one with an RBI and a walk before exiting the game. The 34-year-old has put together an excellent season so far in 2026, hitting .288/.395/.540 with 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 57 runs scored, and three stolen bases across 430 plate appearances. In his 11th MLB season, he's posted his best barrel rate (14.5%). It's not totally clear what the illness that Contreras is battling is, but it seems unlikely that he is looking at significant missed time. Red Sox infielder Anthony Seigler replaced Contreras on Wednesday, and both he and utility man Nick Sogard are candidates to see more playing time if Contreras needs to miss a day or two.
Aug 5 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasRoman Anthony Taking Batting Practice in the Cage
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (wrist), who has been out for three months with a partially torn tendon in his right wrist, has moved to taking batting practice in the batting cage, according to Ian Browne of MLB.com. The left-handed hitter started doing tee work last week and has progressed as he tries to make a return before the end of the 2026 regular season. The next steps for Anthony will be on-field batting practice and hitting off the Trajekt machine, which simulates big-league pitchers. If Anthony can get through those steps without a setback, he should be cleared to start a minor-league rehab assignment. "As long as he's feeling good, we can keep moving him along," said interim manager Chad Tracy. It's good progress for the 22-year-old, but he still has some boxes to check, with a potential return to the major-league roster probably not realistic until late August or early September. Fantasy managers must remain patient, but when healthy, Anthony has the skills to be an asset in all fantasy leagues due to his power/speed upside. Anthony is currently rostered in 73% of Yahoo leagues.
Aug 5 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyGarrett Crochet Resumes Throwing
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said on Tuesday that left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder, lat) has resumed throwing, according to Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald. Crochet started throwing on flat ground at 50 to 60 feet, but it's still a notable step towards a potential return in the second half of the season. The 27-year-old southpaw has made only six starts in 2026 in his second year with the team, and he's been sidelined since late April with shoulder and lat injuries. The Red Sox are right in the mix for a playoff spot this year, so the team isn't going to shut Crochet down, especially since he's making progress. It's good news for his fantasy managers, but Crochet still has a ways to go and won't be ready to rejoin the big-league starting rotation until sometime in September, most likely. The two-time All-Star struggled in his six starts before landing on the IL, too, posting a 6.30 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 37 strikeouts in 30 innings pitched. Crochet is being stashed in 85% of Yahoo leagues, but he's not going to have much time to contribute if/when he returns in the final month of the regular season.
Aug 4 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetCaleb Durbin a Big Part of Boston's Turnaround
Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin hit just .228 (65-for-285) with a .686 OPS, nine home runs, 39 RBI, 10 steals, and 38 runs scored in 87 games and 317 plate appearances during the first half of the season. He has only one home run in 17 games since the All-Star break in mid-July, but he's gone 19-for-60 (.317) at the plate with an .806 OPS as the Red Sox have gone on a run to put themselves firmly in the mix for a playoff spot during the stretch run. Overall, the 26-year-old is hitting .243/.313/.394 with a .708 OPS, 10 home runs, 45 RBI, 12 steals, and 50 runs scored in 104 games across 388 plate appearances this year in his first season in Boston and just his second year in the major leagues. Durbin has definitely hit the ball better so far in the second half, but beneath the hood, his quality of contact doesn't necessarily project an extended strong run to close out the season. Durbin has never profiled as a big power bat, and he has a .233 expected batting average and .284 xwOBA (current wOBA of .313). Speed is Durbin's most endearing quality, and he'll continue to be an everyday player for the BoSox. He's rostered in 39% of Yahoo leagues.
Aug 3 · Source via Boston Red Sox Caleb DurbinWillson Contreras Returns for Sunday Night in L.A.
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (head) is starting at first base and will bat cleanup for the BoSox in Sunday night's series finale on the road against the Los Angeles Dodgers and right-hander Emmet Sheehan, according to MLB.com. Contreras was hit in the head by a pitch in Friday's series opener against the Dodgers, and Boston held him out of Saturday's lineup as a result. However, he avoided a concussion and is returning to action on Sunday. Fantasy managers will want to get the 34-year-old veteran Venezuelan slugger back in their starting lineups in all leagues as he looks to stay hot in August. The four-time All-Star is having a heck of a season in 2026 in his first year in Beantown, hitting .288/.396/.547 with a .943 OPS, 23 home runs, 67 RBI, 55 runs scored, and three stolen bases in 102 games played across 419 plate appearances. Contreras was red-hot in July, going 20-for-62 (.323) at the plate with five home runs, four doubles, 14 RBI, 14 runs scored, and a stolen base in 20 games played and 82 plate appearances.
Aug 2 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasWillson Contreras Pulled After Getting Hit in the Head by a Pitch
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (head) was pulled from Friday's series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers after he was hit in the head by a pitch in the top of the third inning, according to Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Contreras stayed in to run the bases and was then pulled going into the bottom of the third inning. Before leaving, the right-handed slugger went 0-for-1 at the plate with a strikeout. Contreras will most assuredly go for concussion testing, and he could be forced to the seven-day injured list. Nick Sogard shifted from second base to first base after Contreras left, with rookie Anthony Seigler entering the game to play the keystone for Boston. With Curtis Mead (wrist) on the injured list, Sogard would most likely take over most of the playing time at first base if Contreras is forced to miss additional time with his head injury. Losing the Venezuelan first baseman would be a tough blow for the surging BoSox, as Contreras is having the best year of his career in Beantown in 2026. The four-time All-Star came into Friday's game in L.A. with a .289/.396/.549 slash line with a .944 OPS, 23 home runs, 67 RBI, 55 runs scored, and three steals in 101 games. He needs just two more home runs to set a new career high in that category.
Aug 1 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasCurtis Mead has Non-Displaced Wrist Fracture
Boston Red Sox third baseman Curtis Mead (wrist) is dealing with a non-displaced wrist fracture and will be reimaged in four weeks, according to Ian Browne. Mead was placed on the 10-day Injured List on Wednesday after getting hit by a pitch in the hand during his team debut on Monday. The original timetable was 6-to-8 weeks for Mead, but maybe he'll be able to beat that. Fantasy managers still won't get anything out of him during August. We'll see if the Red Sox add another bat at the trade deadline or wait for Mead to make his return.
Jul 30 · Source via Boston Red Sox Curtis MeadRoman Anthony Starts Swinging a Bat
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said on Thursday that outfielder Roman Anthony (finger) has started swinging a bat, according to Christopher Smith of MassLive.com. "Off a tee, short flips, there's some of that action going on. It's mainly up to about 30 swings at this time, and he's doing well. He began swinging yesterday. There's no clear next steps yet," Tracy added. "He just started doing it. It's probably going to remain that way for a little while and see how he's feeling. And then if that continues to go well, then we'll start talking about building out a progression to more stuff. But he at least has a bat in his hand swinging." The former top outfielder prospect has been a bust in 2026, having played in only 30 games due to a torn tendon in his right ring finger. The 22-year-old has been out since early May, and there's no clear timetable for his return. Anthony is still rostered in 72% of Yahoo leagues for his power/speed upside, but it might not be until late August or early September until we see him back with the Red Sox's big-league club.
Jul 30 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman AnthonyCurtis Mead Not Expected to Have Surgery
Boston Red Sox third baseman Curtis Mead (hand) is not expected to undergo surgery, according to Chris Cotillo. Mead is expected to miss 6-8 weeks while he recovers from a fractured left wrist. The 25-year-old was recently acquired by the team and suffered this injury during his second at-bat on Monday. The hope is that Mead can resume baseball activities at some point in August. Mead should be able to contribute again before the end of the season, but this is still a tough break for the Red Sox. The organization could look to add another bat at the upcoming trade deadline.
Jul 29 · Source via Boston Red Sox Curtis MeadCurtis Mead Heads to Injured List With Fractured Wrist
Boston Red Sox newly acquired infielder Curtis Mead (wrist) is being placed on the 10-day injured list on Tuesday with a fractured left wrist that he suffered when he was hit by a pitch in his debut with the team on Monday against the Athletics. It's unclear how long Mead will be sidelined, but he obviously won't be ready to return in 10 days, and he could struggle to return before the end of the 2026 regular season, depending on how his wrist heals. It's a really tough break for the 25-year-old Aussie and Boston, who just sent left-hander Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals for Mead over the weekend in the midst of his breakout campaign. Mead has hit .253/.353/.498 with an .851 OPS, a career-high 17 home runs, 48 RBI, 49 runs scored, and six stolen bases in 88 games across 329 plate appearances in his fourth year in the majors. His previous career high for homers was three last season with the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox. Mead is now rostered in under half of Yahoo leagues after his unfortunate injury. Anthony Seigler figures to see most of the playing time in Beantown at the keystone moving forward, with Nick Sogard also being an option to pick up starts at the position.
Jul 28 · Source via Boston Red Sox Curtis MeadCurtis Mead Departs Early on Monday After Being Hit on the Hand by a Pitch
New Boston Red Sox infielder Curtis Mead (hand) was forced from Monday's game early against the Athletics after he was hit by a pitch on his left hand in the fourth inning, per Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. Before being replaced by Anthony Seigler at second base, Mead went 0-for-1 at the plate with a strikeout and the hit-by-pitch. It's a bad start to Mead's tenure with the BoSox after being acquired from the Washington Nationals in a trade involving left-hander Connell Early over the weekend. Mead will most likely be taken for X-rays, at which point we'll have a better idea whether he'll need to miss additional time. The 25-year-old Australian native came out of nowhere to hit a career-high 17 home runs while driving in 48 and stealing six bases in 87 games and 327 plate appearances in Washington before the Red Sox traded for him. Mead previously had career highs of just three homers and 19 RBI from last year with the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox. He's rostered in just over half of Yahoo leagues now and is slated to play regularly at second in Beantown, as long as he avoids a serious hand injury. Mead has added fantasy value thanks to first base, second base, and third base eligibility.
Jul 27 · Source via Boston Red Sox Curtis MeadCurtis Mead Set to Play Second Base in Boston
Boston Red Sox manager Chad Tracy said that recently acquired infielder Curtis Mead will play second base for Boston, per Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald. The Red Sox acquired Mead from the Washington Nationals in exchange for starting pitcher Connelly Early (elbow) on Saturday night. While Mead mostly played the corner infield spots in Washington, he has experience at second base as well. With Mead at second base, Caleb Durbin will remain Boston's primary third baseman. Mead has been one of the more surprising breakout success stories of the 2026 season, hitting .254/.352/.500 with 17 home runs, 48 RBI, 49 runs scored, and six stolen bases across 327 plate appearances with the Nationals. With his ability to play multiple infield spots, Mead should see everyday playing time for the Red Sox the rest of the way.
Jul 26 · Source via Boston Red Sox Curtis MeadRanger Suarez to Start on Sunday
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Ranger Suarez (groin, illness) will return to the mound for Sunday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays. There was some speculation that Suarez's start would be pushed back while he recovers from an illness. He was deemed healthy, so Suarez is back on the mound for the first time since early July. During the first half, Suarez posted a 3.15 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and a 97/26 K/BB ratio across 91.1 innings of work. He should be rostered and started in just about every fantasy format. The move to start Suarez on Sunday will push Payton Tolle back to Monday's game against the Athletics.
Jul 25 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ranger SuarezConnelly Early Throws Bullpen Session
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Connelly Early (elbow) threw a successful one-inning bullpen session on Friday as he continues to work his way back from left posterior elbow inflammation. He also threw from 120 feet and participated in pitcher fielding drills, making it a busy and productive day. The plan is for the 24-year-old southpaw to throw a two-inning bullpen session sometime next week, followed by a live batting practice session. Once those steps are completed, the Red Sox expect him to begin a short rehab assignment, putting him on track to return well before the end of the regular season. Given this positive outlook, Early is worth holding in fantasy leagues, and if he is available on the waiver wire, he is worth adding before he is activated from the Injured List.
Jul 25 · Source via Prospects Boston Red Sox Connelly EarlyRanger Suarez Could Start on Sunday
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Ranger Suarez (illness, groin) is an option to take the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday. Suarez landed on the Injured List on July 9 due to a left groin strain. He has recovered from that, but has held out during their last series due to an illness. According to interim manager Chad Tracy, Suarez is eating less than usual, so the Red Sox want to make sure he's 100 percent healthy before sending him back out on the mound. If Suarez isn't able to pitch on Sunday, Payton Tolle would get the nod versus the Blue Jays. Fantasy managers should check back on Sunday for another update on this situation.
Jul 24 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ranger SuarezCaleb Durbin Is a Strong Power-Speed Target
Boston Red Sox third baseman Caleb Durbin has worked his way into mixed-league relevance with a useful blend of power and speed. He is batting .236/.299/.400 with 10 home runs, 42 RBI, 42 runs, and 11 stolen bases across 92 games. Durbin does not hit the ball especially hard, but his 13.6% strikeout rate helps him stay involved and keeps the floor from falling apart when the power cools. The 26-year-old has also settled into regular work at third base and carries second-base eligibility in Yahoo leagues, giving managers more ways to fit him into a lineup. His 84.9 mph average exit velocity, 29.2% hard-hit rate, and 2.7% barrel rate make another major power surge unlikely, so the appeal is the overall category mix rather than a breakout. Durbin remains available in 59% of Yahoo leagues and ranks 25th in RotoBaller's latest waiver rankings. He belongs in the 10-team mix.
Jul 24 · Source via Boston Red Sox Caleb DurbinRanger Suarez Won't Come Off the Injured List on Wednesday
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said that left-hander Ranger Suarez (groin, illness) isn't ready to be activated from the 15-day injured list to start Game 2 of the team's doubleheader on Wednesday against the division-rival Baltimore Orioles, according to Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald. However, it's more due to an illness than his groin injury. Suarez is nearing his return from a groin injury that initially landed him on the IL on July 9, and with a scheduled day off for the team coming on Friday, it's possible that he could be ready to return and start in Friday's series opener at Fenway Park against the division-rival Toronto Blue Jays. Rookie left-hander Eduardo Rivera will start Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader as the BoSox look for their 16th straight victory. Suarez has been a must-start fantasy pitcher in all leagues in 2026 in his first year in Beantown, as he has gone 4-3 with a 3.15 ERA (2.61 FIP) and 1.16 WHIP with 97 strikeouts (career-high 25.8% strikeout rate) and 26 walks in 91 1/3 innings across his 17 starts to earn his second All-Star nod in the last three years.
Jul 22 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ranger SuarezGarrett Whitlock's 12-Appearance Scoreless Run Adds Value Beyond Saves
Boston Red Sox right-handed reliever Garrett Whitlock worked a perfect eighth inning in Monday's 6-5 win over Baltimore, striking out one and earning his fifth victory. It was his 12th straight scoreless appearance. Whitlock has allowed four hits and no walks over 11 1/3 innings during that run, with 10 strikeouts. His season numbers are just as useful: a 2.00 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 39 strikeouts, and two saves across 36 innings. Aroldis Chapman remains Boston's closer and recorded his 22nd save Monday, so Whitlock is not an immediate ninth-inning play. He is still the direct backup and one of the better ratio relievers available. Whitlock is rostered in 24% of Yahoo leagues. That makes him a strong add in deeper formats and leagues that count holds, where the clean innings, strikeouts, and occasional wins already carry value. Any additional saves would be a bonus.
Jul 22 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett WhitlockNo Timetable for Garrett Crochet to Resume Throwing
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder, lat) said on Tuesday that he and the training staff still don't have a timetable for when he will restart his throwing program, according to Christopher Smith of MassLive.com. Crochet was initially placed on the injured list on April 29 with inflammation in his left shoulder, but he felt lat tightness two days later while throwing a one-inning simulated game, and he hasn't thrown a baseball since. "Making a lot of progress in the strength department right now," Crochet said. When asked if there was a chance he might not pitch again this season, the ace said, "It's tough to say." He's now on the 60-day IL after originally hoping his IL stint would last the minimum 15 days. Crochet started throwing weighted plyo balls in mid-June but stopped near the start of July. His shoulder injury is the biggest issue, as he called his lat injury "super minor." In shallow-mixed fantasy leagues, we wouldn't blame any managers for cutting the 27-year-old southpaw, as at this point, it's looking more likely that he won't return until September, if at all. Currently, he's still rostered in 94% of Yahoo leagues.
Jul 22 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetRed Sox Place Zack Kelly On 60-Day Injured List
The Red Sox announced that right-hander Zack Kelly has been recalled from Triple-A Worcester and placed onto the 60-day injured list with elbow inflammation. No corresponding move was announced, so the club's 40-man roster count drops to 39. Kelly has a stress reaction in his olecranon bone but is not expected to require surgery, per [...]
Jul 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Boston Red Sox Zack KellyRanger Suarez Set to Return on Tuesday
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Ranger Suarez (groin) will return from the 15-day injured list on Tuesday to face the Baltimore Orioles, per Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. The 30-year-old was placed on the IL in early July due to a left groin strain, but the injury appears to have been a minor one. Across 91 1/3 innings (17 starts) this season, Suarez has recorded a 4-3 record with a 3.15 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 97 strikeouts. In his first season in Boston, the veteran left-hander owns a career-best 25.8% strikeout rate. Now that he's back in the Red Sox rotation, Suarez profiles as a must-start fantasy pitcher.
Jul 20 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ranger SuarezWilyer Abreu has Second Straight Two-Homer Game on Saturday
Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu has had one heck of a start to the second half of the 2026 season. For the second straight game on Saturday in a 7-6 win over the visiting Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park, Abreu had two home runs, going 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBI and a walk to boost his season average to .266 and his OPS to an even .800. The 27-year-old left-handed-hitting Venezuelan outfielder is now slashing .266/.338/.462 on the year with 15 home runs, 49 RBI, 49 runs scored, and six stolen bases in 95 games across 413 plate appearances in his fourth year in the majors. He's on pace to easily shatter his previous career highs in basically every category in the second half after he hit 22 homers and drove in 69 in 115 games for the BoSox a year ago. So far in 13 games and 60 plate appearances in July, Abreu is hitting .260 (13-for-50) with a 1.007 OPS, five long balls, four doubles, 10 RBI, and 11 runs scored. If he's somehow available in your league -- he's rostered in 81% of Yahoo leagues -- he's an immediate pickup.
Jul 19 · Source via Boston Red Sox Wilyer AbreuCaleb Durbin Has Earned a Spot in 10-Team Leagues
Boston Red Sox third baseman Caleb Durbin has not done much for batting average, but the category mix still plays. He is hitting .228 with nine home runs, 38 runs, 39 RBI, and 10 steals across 285 at-bats. Durbin also came out of the break with five hits in the July 17 doubleheader against Tampa Bay, three in the opener and two in the nightcap. The contact helps keep the floor from falling out. Durbin has struck out just 44 times in 317 plate appearances, plays regularly at third, and carries second-base eligibility in Yahoo leagues. He is not a must-add in every format, but there is enough here for managers who need a little speed without punting power. Durbin is currently on 37% of Yahoo rosters and belongs in the 10-team mix.
Jul 19 · Source via Boston Red Sox Caleb DurbinJake Bennett Picks Up Fifth Win on Friday, Emerging as a Priority Arm on the Waiver Wire
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Jake Bennett picked up his fifth win of the season in his first start after the All-Star break on Friday, allowing just one hit across six scoreless innings in his team's 10-0 win over the Tampa Bay Rays. Since making his MLB debut on May 1, Bennett has recorded a 5-3 record with a 2.35 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts across 53 2/3 innings (nine starts). The 25-year-old left-hander does not have overwhelming strikeout stuff, as he's averaging 93.0 miles per hour on his fastball and has logged just an 18.7% strikeout rate. However, his command has been elite. Bennett posted a 5.7% walk rate across 39 1/3 innings at Triple-A before his promotion, and he's allowed a 4.4% walk rate in the big leagues so far. Bennett has also been hard to square up, surrendering a 5.8% barrel rate and just three total home runs. Fantasy managers should not expect a ton of strikeout upside, but Bennett remains an emerging young pitcher to target on the waiver wire.
Jul 18 · Source via Boston Red Sox Jake BennettWilyer Abreu Goes Deep Twice in Second Game of Doubleheader
Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu closed out the team's doubleheader sweep of the division-rival Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park on Friday with a big performance in Game 2, going 2-for-4 at the plate with two home runs and three RBI in the 5-3 victory to boost his season average to .263 and his OPS to .777. Abreu went 1-for-4 with a walk in the 10-0 shutout win in Game 1 of the twin bill. It was the 27-year-old left-handed-hitting Venezuelan outfielder's first multi-homer game of the 2026 season, and his first since July of last year versus the Chicago Cubs. It was nice to see from him to start the second half of the year after he went 8-for-39 (.205) with a homer, four doubles, four RBI, seven runs scored, six walks, and 13 strikeouts in his first 10 games in the month of July. Abreu now sits on 13 homers, 46 RBI, and six stolen bases with a .777 OPS in 409 plate appearances on the 2026 campaign. He'll look to stay hot at the plate to begin the second half in Game 3 of the series on Saturday in Beantown.
Jul 17 · Source via Boston Red Sox Wilyer AbreuConnelly Early Resumes Throwing, Making Progress
Boston Red Sox left-hander Connell Early (elbow) is making progress with his throwing program, interim manager Chad Tracy told Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. "Connelly threw at the tail end of the break, which is good. He's gonna throw 75 feet today, 90 feet tomorrow. We'll just keep, as he increases distance, read and react to how he's feeling. That's a good sign." Early is on the 15-day injured list with inflammation in his left elbow, but it sounds as though he might be able to rejoin Boston's starting rotation in the second half sooner rather than later. It's unclear yet if he'll need a minor-league rehab start first, but even if he does, Early could be back in action in the big leagues before the calendar flips to August. Despite his injury, the 24-year-old southpaw is one of the more intriguing young long-term pitchers to follow in fantasy. Before going on the IL, he was 7-5 with a 3.44 ERA (4.60 FIP) and 1.25 WHIP with 93 strikeouts and 34 walks in 91 2/3 innings over his 17 starts in his first full year in Boston. Don't lose sight of him as a potential waiver addition when he nears his return. Early is rostered in under half of Yahoo leagues right now.
Jul 17 · Source via Prospects Boston Red Sox Connelly EarlyEduardo Rivera to Start Game 2 of Friday's Doubleheader
Boston Red Sox left-handed pitching prospect Eduardo Rivera will get the starting nod for Game 2 of the team's doubleheader on Friday at Fenway Park against the division-rival Tampa Bay Rays, interim manager Chad Tracy told Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. It will be Rivera's third major-league outing and his second start. The 23-year-old Cuban southpaw has thrown seven shutout innings so far in his two big-league outings with two walks and six strikeouts. In his first MLB start against the New York Mets on July 7, Rivera held them scoreless in 3 2/3 frames with two walks and three K's. Rivera is a pitching prospect to keep an eye on in dynasty/keeper leagues as Boston's No. 25 prospect, per MLB Pipeline, but he won't be a recommended streamer against the first-place Rays with a likely short leash in the second game of the twin bill. Rivera has mostly operated as a multi-inning reliever rather than a full-time starter in 2026. In his 20 outings (two starts) at Triple-A Worcester earlier this year, Rivera had a 6-2 record, 2.84 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and 46:21 K:BB in 38 innings pitched.
Jul 17 · Source via Boston Red Sox Eduardo RiveraRanger Suarez Could Return From Injured List on Tuesday
Boston Red Sox left-hander Ranger Suarez (groin) is eligible to return from the 15-day injured list on Tuesday, but it's to be determined if the Red Sox will activate him then or give him a couple of extra days, according to Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald. If Suarez returns on the first day he's eligible, he'll be lined up to face the division-rival Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park. The veteran southpaw is recovering from a minor strained left groin that caused him to miss Tuesday's All-Star Game. It sounds as though he won't need a minor-league rehab start before rejoining Boston's starting rotation, which is good news for his fantasy managers. The 30-year-old Venezuelan hurler was named as an All-Star in 2026 for just the second time of his career after going 4-3 with a 3.15 ERA (2.61 FIP) and 1.16 WHIP with 97 strikeouts and 26 walks in 91 1/3 innings across 17 starts in his first year in Beantown. Suarez's strong first half was backed by a career-high 25.8% strikeout rate. He'll be riskier in his first start back next week, and he could be on a bit of a pitch count, making him a DFS fade.
Jul 17 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ranger SuarezCan Ceddanne Rafaela Continue His Momentum in the Second Half?
Boston Red Sox second baseman/outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela earned his way to the All-Star game with a .281 batting average, eight homers, 12 stolen bases, and a .333 wOBA to go with his excellent defense. The 25-year-old has been much more selective this season and has hit .289 with six of those stolen bases over his 35 games since June 1. His contact metrics haven't been great over that span, but he has done a good job of piling up run production from the second spot in the lineup as Boston's batting order has come to life over the last few weeks. Rafaela is a solid source of speed and some potential power. He's been a streaky contributor throughout his time in the majors and has the potential to get hot in the second half and continue his emergence as a strong and versatile option on your fantasy roster.
Jul 16 · Source via Boston Red Sox Ceddanne RafaelaAnthony Seigler a Deep-League Must-Add While the At-Bats Last?
Boston Red Sox second baseman Anthony Seigler hit the break at .257/.333/.419 with two home runs, 13 runs, six RBI, and two steals in 74 at-bats. He settled into regular duty after his June 20 recall, even handling leadoff assignments while Boston patched together an injured infield. Only 3% of Yahoo leagues have him rostered. This is not a power chase. Seigler walked at a 16.4% clip in Triple-A and hit .290/.409/.435 there, with three homers and four steals in 131 at-bats. Trevor Story, Marcelo Mayer, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa are all still working back from injuries, though each could return after the break. That makes the window useful, not permanent. RotoBaller ranks Seigler 84th for Week 16 and recommends him in 15-team leagues. In that format, the runs, on-base ability, and multi-position eligibility are enough to make the add.
Jul 15 · Source via Boston Red Sox Anthony SeiglerWillson Contreras Won't Waive his No-Trade Clause
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras said he told the team that he would not be willing to waive his no-trade clause, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Contreras wants to finish his career in Boston and joked that he got out ahead of potential rumors by making his stance clear. The 34-year-old veteran Venezuelan made it to the semifinals of the Home Run Derby on Monday night and is having the best year of his career in 2026 in his first season in Beantown, hitting .285/.379/.542 with a .921 OPS, 20 home runs, 61 RBI, 46 runs scored, and two stolen bases in 312 at-bats through the first half of the season. With the Red Sox now having a shot at a wild-card spot in the American League after a strong finish to the first half, and with Contreras saying he won't waive his no-trade clause, he might stick around in Boston beyond the 2026 season. In fantasy leagues, Contreras is a hold at the halfway point with the ninth-best xwOBA (.390) and expected batting average of .274 thanks to a hard-hit rate in the 79th percentile, a barrel rate in the 88th percentile, and an xSLG in the 97th percentile.
Jul 14 · Source via Boston Red Sox Willson ContrerasAre Aroldis Chapman's Recent Struggles a Reason for Concern?
Across 28 2/3 innings (30 games) in 2026, Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman has pitched to a 2.20 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 36 strikeouts and 19 saves. The veteran left-hander has not been quite as dominant as he was in his resurgent 2025 season, but he's still posted an impressive 29.8% strikeout rate and has blown just two save chances on the year. However, there may be some underlying reason for concern in Chapman's profile. After allowing just one earned run through his first 18 2/3 innings of the season, Chapman has allowed six earned runs across 10 innings since the start of June. His average fastball velocity is currently a career-low 97.0 miles per hour, and his walk rate has crept back above 10% over the last two months. Additionally, Chapman may be a trade candidate if Boston cannot sustain its current hot streak after the All-Star break. While he could easily remain a closer following a trade, there's no guarantee that Chapman would remain in a ninth-inning role with a new team. Managers should require a major haul in return, but Chapman could be a sell-high candidate ahead of the second half of the season.
Jul 14 · Source via Closers Boston Red Sox Aroldis ChapmanIs Garrett Whitlock a Must-Stash Closer
Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Garrett Whitlock continues to be very effective for the Red Sox, but his future role has been clouded a little bit by his team's recent success. Before the Red Sox won nine straight games heading into the All-Star break, it seemed inevitable that Whitlock or his fellow reliever Aroldis Chapman would be traded at the deadline, with the Red Sox well out of the playoff race. Now that Boston is back in the battle for a Wild Card spot, there's a greater chance the team holds both relievers through the deadline, which would likely keep Whitlock in a setup role. The 30-year-old has been very effective in his 34 games, posting a 2.18 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in his 33 games with 37 strikeouts and two saves. He has huge potential if he steps in as the closer for the Red Sox or another team, depending on where all the pieces land at the trade deadline. If you can stash Whitlock in deep leagues, he still has an elite ceiling down the stretch if he becomes a full-time closer. Since it now seems less certain that he gets that chance, though, he can be left on the waiver wire in standard-sized leagues until the situation becomes clearer as we near the August 3 MLB Trade Deadline.
Jul 14 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett WhitlockGarrett Crochet Still hasn't Been Cleared to Throw
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder) still has not been cleared to throw, interim manager Chad Tracy told MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo. Instead, Crochet is still playing catch with weighted plyometric balls as he tries to recover from inflammation in his left shoulder. The talented southpaw was put on the injured list way back on April 29 with shoulder inflammation before he had a setback with a low-grade lat strain while facing hitters at the end of May. The 27-year-old two-time All-Star has essentially recovered from his lat strain but now needs to get over the hump with his shoulder injury. The fact that Crochet hasn't resumed throwing essentially rules out a return before the end of July, and with a lengthy minor-league rehab assignment now probably necessary, fantasy managers may not see him again until mid-to-late August. It's been a frustrating development in 2026 for those who have Crochet rostered after he finished second in the American League Cy Young voting last year. In his six starts with Boston this year before going down, he struggled to a 6.30 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 37:11 K:BB in 30 innings. Crochet's high-end upside makes him stash-worthy in all fantasy leagues, though.
Jul 13 · Source via Boston Red Sox Garrett CrochetRoman Anthony to Continue to Rehab in Florida
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy confirmed that outfielder Roman Anthony's (finger) follow-up appointment with Dr. Gary Lourie in Georgia revealed no new information about the finger/hand injury that has kept Anthony on the injured list since May 5, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Anthony will continue to build up strength at the team's spring training complex in Fort Myers, Florida. "Everything's healing, going the way it should, so he'll go down to Florida and continue to do his thing so we can get ramped up quicker," Tracy said. The 22-year-old former top prospect has been out since May 7 due to a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger. Anthony is quickly developing an injury-prone label after he was shut down late last season due to injury. Although there is no clear timetable for Anthony's return, this might be the perfect time to buy low on him in dynasty/keeper leagues. When healthy, Anthony still has one of the best power/speed profiles of any young outfielder in the game, and he'll be a lineup regular for the BoSox whenever he returns to action in the second half. Anthony was hitting .229 (25-for-109) with a homer, five RBI, 12 runs, and two stolen bases before going down earlier this year.
Jul 13 · Source via Boston Red Sox Roman Anthony