What's Happening?
The Boston Red Sox are expecting the return of three key players, Wilyer Abreu, Justin Slaten, and Rob Refsnyder, as they continue their push for the top Wildcard spot. Manager Alex Cora announced that Refsnyder, who has been sidelined since August 15 due to an oblique injury, could return as soon as Monday. Slaten, recovering from shoulder and neck issues, made a rehab appearance and may be activated soon. Abreu, dealing with calf tightness, is set to run at Camden Yards, signaling a potential return. Abreu leads the team with 22 home runs and is a Gold Glove contender, while Slaten's return is crucial for the bullpen, given his career 3.09 ERA. Refsnyder's comeback will bolster the outfield and enhance the lineup against left-handed pitchers.
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Why It's Important?
The return of these players is critical for the Red Sox as they aim to maintain their position in the Wildcard race. Abreu's power and defensive skills are vital for the team's outfield depth and offensive strength. Slaten's presence in the bullpen is essential to address recent vulnerabilities, providing stability with his proven track record. Refsnyder's ability to hit left-handed pitchers adds strategic flexibility to the lineup. As the Red Sox compete for a playoff spot, the timely return of these players could significantly impact their performance and chances of advancing.
What's Next?
The Red Sox will closely monitor the recovery progress of Abreu, Slaten, and Refsnyder, with potential activations in the coming days. Their return could influence the team's strategy and lineup decisions as they face upcoming games. The Red Sox's management will likely assess the players' readiness and make adjustments to optimize their playoff push. The team's performance in the next few games will be crucial in determining their standing in the Wildcard race.
