Yoshida’s absence from the Boston Red Sox’s outfield lineup for the third consecutive game against the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday drew attention.
While injuries have plagued the Red Sox early in the season, Yoshida’s absence isn’t due to injury. Manager Alex Cora clarified that Yoshida’s sidelined status is a result of the return of Tyler O’Neill and Rafael Devers, both returning from knee injuries. O’Neill and Devers filled the designated hitter position in their comeback games, displacing Yoshida from his usual role.
Cora addressed the situation, stating, “(Yoshida’s) an everyday DH, man. I don’t know what the big deal is. O’Neill had to DH yesterday. Raffy had to DH today. He’ll DH tomorrow. I don’t get it.” Cora emphasized the necessity of adapting the lineup due to player returns and injuries, explaining the outfield rotation involving O’Neill, Wilyer Abreu, and Jarren Duran.
Yoshida’s offensive performance this season has declined compared to last year, with a .250/.333/.375 slash line, two home runs, and 10 RBIs in 21 games. Despite showing promise with a 3-for-4 performance and a home run in a recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Yoshida hasn’t been included in the starting lineup since.
Notably, the Red Sox have refrained from utilizing Yoshida in the outfield, despite his 87 starts in left field last season. This season, he has only played one inning in that position.
Cora emphasized the necessity of managing the roster amid injuries, stating, “If you look at the lineup and where we’re at roster-wise, I cannot have two DH’s.” He expressed frustration with the speculation surrounding Yoshida’s absence, reiterating his commitment to honesty and transparency with the media.
In essence, Yoshida’s absence from the starting lineup is a strategic decision driven by roster dynamics and player availability, rather than injury concerns.
While injuries have plagued the Red Sox early in the season, Yoshida’s absence isn’t due to injury. Manager Alex Cora clarified that Yoshida’s sidelined status is a result of the return of Tyler O’Neill and Rafael Devers, both returning from knee injuries. O’Neill and Devers filled the designated hitter position in their comeback games, displacing Yoshida from his usual role.
Cora addressed the situation, stating, “(Yoshida’s) an everyday DH, man. I don’t know what the big deal is. O’Neill had to DH yesterday. Raffy had to DH today. He’ll DH tomorrow. I don’t get it.” Cora emphasized the necessity of adapting the lineup due to player returns and injuries, explaining the outfield rotation involving O’Neill, Wilyer Abreu, and Jarren Duran.
Yoshida’s offensive performance this season has declined compared to last year, with a .250/.333/.375 slash line, two home runs, and 10 RBIs in 21 games. Despite showing promise with a 3-for-4 performance and a home run in a recent game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Yoshida hasn’t been included in the starting lineup since.
Notably, the Red Sox have refrained from utilizing Yoshida in the outfield, despite his 87 starts in left field last season. This season, he has only played one inning in that position.
Cora emphasized the necessity of managing the roster amid injuries, stating, “If you look at the lineup and where we’re at roster-wise, I cannot have two DH’s.” He expressed frustration with the speculation surrounding Yoshida’s absence, reiterating his commitment to honesty and transparency with the media.
In essence, Yoshida’s absence from the starting lineup is a strategic decision driven by roster dynamics and player availability, rather than injury concerns.
