Red Sox right fielder Wilyer Abreu, described by manager Alex Cora as a key weapon and threat, is expected to rejoin the active roster and start Sunday night’s final game of the series against the Rays.
“I feel strong and good,” Abreu said. “I’m ready to go.”
Abreu, who has been out for over a month with a right calf strain, resumed workouts at Fenway Park on Friday and continued running drills on Saturday after practicing with teammates at Steinbrenner Field. The medical staff decided to give him one more day before returning.
He last played on August 17 and initially thought the injury would only sideline him briefly. “It was tough; I didn’t expect to be out this long, but now I’m ready, and that’s what matters most,” Abreu said.
His absence was especially felt after Roman Anthony, another important left-handed hitter, went down with a left oblique strain on September 2. With both key players sidelined, the Sox held a 6-8 record as of Saturday.
This season, Abreu has shown versatility by batting in spots three through eight and is known for his defensive skills. His 22 home runs rank second on the team behind Trevor Story’s 25.
“He can hit the ball out of the park, which we’ve missed since he’s been out,” Cora said. “He adds a big threat anywhere in the lineup. Whether he bats in the middle or lower, he brings quality at-bats and is a valuable weapon.”
Like many of Boston’s young players, Abreu is eager to make his postseason debut. “I’m really excited because it means a lot to the team and the city. When we get there, it’s going to be a lot of fun,” he said.
