The Boston Red Sox just pulled a move that’s gonna make the rest of the league sweat a little: they activated outfielder Roman Anthony and shortstop Trevor Story from the 60-day injured list on Sunday. This isn’t just a minor shuffle; this is a massive offensive boost for a team that’s been fighting their way into the postseason race without these two key pieces. With the calendar flipping to September, the timing couldn’t be more crucial.
Back in the Fray: Immediate Lineup Impact
Both Anthony and Story are jumping straight back into the lineup, no warm-up needed. Anthony is slated to serve as Boston’s designated hitter and bat leadoff, putting one of their most dangerous young hitters right at the top of the order. Can you imagine the pressure that puts on opposing pitchers from the jump? Story, bringing that veteran presence, will slide back into his defensive role at shortstop, batting eighth. To make room on the 26-man roster, the Red Sox optioned catcher Mickey Gasper and infielder Anthony Seigler to Triple-A Worcester. It shows they mean business, cutting ties with roster filler to get their big bats back.
The Playoff Push Just Got Real
Let’s be real, the Red Sox stumbled early in the season. But they clawed their way back into postseason contention, even while playing much of that stretch without Anthony and Story. Manager Alex Cora just got a huge boost in flexibility, and their lineup is undeniably longer, stronger, and ready for some meaningful baseball down the stretch. All-Star first baseman Willson Contreras didn’t mince words about it, saying, “I think it’s really important for us to get those guys back. We need them.” Anthony offers another table-setter and run producer at the top, while Story provides experience and stability at a demanding defensive position. They don’t need to carry the team; they just need to complement a group that held strong while they recovered. But their return? That could absolutely change Boston’s ceiling heading into October.
As they gear up for their series finale against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium, the Red Sox are getting healthy at exactly the right time. Boston survived without Anthony and Story; now the question is, how far can they go *with* them back? And speaking of big swings, our own Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is on track to hit the fewest home runs after a 60+ homer season in MLB history. Gotta love that Emerald City grit!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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