The Boston Red Sox lineup took a hit when the team sent Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants in a stunning trade on Sunday night. However, they could be getting a much-needed boost in the near future from star third baseman Alex Bregman.
Nearly a month ago on May 23, Bregman suffered a right quad strain that forced him to the injured list, and it was revealed that he was going to miss an extended period of time. In his absence, the team promoted one of their top prospects, Marcelo Mayer, to fill in at third base.
While Bregman’s absence already had a big impact on the lineup, the hole is even more glaring now that Devers is gone. As a result, the Red Sox surely cannot wait to get Bregman back.
The hope is that Bregman will return before the All-Star break, which kicks off on July 12. And if his latest Instagram post is any proof, it looks like Bregman is making good progress when it comes to his injury rehab work.
After signing a three-year, $120 million contract with Boston in free agency, Bregman was enjoying a resurgent season prior to his injury. In 51 games, Bregman is hitting .299 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs.
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When he does eventually return, things are going to look quite different for the two-time All-Star. Rather than working in tandem with Devers at the top of Boston’s lineup, Bregman will immediately become the focal point of their lineup upon his return to the field.
Some guys will have to get bumped around to make room for Bregman, as Mayer will get moved off of third base. Whether or not he stays in the majors remains to be seen, as he, Kristian Campbell, and Roman Anthony are all candidates to head back to Triple-A once Bregman and Wilyer Abreu come off the injured list.
For now, though, the Red Sox are trying to keep their recent momentum going, even amid all the chatter that has followed in the wake of the Devers trade. The team will be looking to win their fourth straight series when they square off against the Seattle Mariners in their rubber match on Wednesday at 4:10 p.m. ET.
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