Red Sox fans have waited weeks for news on Roman Anthony. The answer finally arrived on Saturday night in Worcester. Tommy Cassell of Worcester T&G Sports reported a simple fact that speaks volumes. “Roman Anthony’s locker here at Polar Park is cleared out,” Cassell wrote. This small detail means the 22-year-old outfielder has likely played his last game for the Triple-A club.
Anthony went 0-for-2 with a walk and a strikeout in his final appearance. He was pulled early, but the move was not a setback. Instead, it was the final step before a major league return. Both Anthony and shortstop Trevor Story have their travel bags packed. They are ready to leave Worcester for Boston.
The timing matters. The Red Sox wrap up their four-game series against the New York Yankees on Sunday. First pitch is set for 1:35 p.m. ET. If the team activates Anthony, they will not need a formal press release until Sunday. The lack of a locker at the minor league park tells the whole story.
A Defined Role at the Top
Manager Chad Tracy has already decided where Anthony fits. According to Red Sox reporter Ian Browne, Anthony will hit leadoff against right-handed pitching. This gives the lineup a clear spark. Anthony posted a .354 on-base percentage in 30 games before his injury. His 20 walks in 109 at-bats showed the patience needed for the top spot.
The team has not yet decided how to handle left-handed starters. Jahmai Jones remains an option there. But the plan for righties is set. Anthony’s return adds two legit bats to a lineup that has needed help. The Red Sox entered Saturday with a 73-61 record. The American League East standings show them in third place.
Anthony has been recovering from a partially torn tendon in his right ring finger. He missed time since early May. His rehab numbers in Worcester were strong. He hit a home run and drove in four runs in just three games. He also posted a 1.052 OPS during that stint.
Pushing Back Against the Noise
Anthony has faced whispers about his social life and his commitment. He is done with those rumors. “I did everything I could,” he said. He took every injection he could get as soon as possible. He attempted every measure possible to return to the field. Unfortunately, pushing too hard may have set him back a little bit.
He noted that three outside doctors told him it was a three-month injury. It took right about that much time. He views the social media talk as a non-issue. “I prioritize getting to bed and doing everything I can to show up and give it all to my teammates and to the fans,” Anthony said. He is a 22-year-old kid who just wants to play.
The Red Sox have found their footing without him, but they need him now. Nick Sogard and Mickey Gasper have stepped up as role players. They cannot carry the team forever. Anthony provides the protection the lineup needs. With Wilyer Abreu and Ceddanne Rafaela behind him, the offense should click.
Anthony and Story could return this weekend. The team has more business to handle in New York.
