The Boston Red Sox need to work out some issues regarding chemistry and position settings before they can compete for a World Series title.
They fixed some of their issues by having Masataka Yoshida return to his early 2023 form before needing right shoulder labral repair surgery. This was an issue that was limited all off-season and still has its effect going into March.
On Feb. 28, Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced that Yoshida would ease his way back to the field as he starts to play in the Grapefruit League at the designated hitter position. Cora also said that he will still have limitations in his throws as he won’t be throwing more than 45 feet.
Cora didn’t state if Yoshida would only play DH even after his recovery, but he likes a versatile lineup.
All of this is to ensure that his transition back on the field isn’t rushed and to let his transition back on the field defensively be natural. The goal is for Yoshida to be well enough to play certain games in the outfield when they need third baseman Rafael Devers or first baseman Triston Casas to DH.
Yoshida had a slight drop in production last season, outside of the injury. In 108 games played, he accumulated a batting of .280, an on-base percentage of .349, and a slugging percentage of. 415. He also accounted for 45 runs, 106 hits, 21 double-base hits, 10 home runs, 56 RBIs, 27 walks, and 52 strikeouts.
The Red Sox can give themselves an even better chance at being a threat in the AL and AL East with a healthy and ready roster. Yoshida could easily have a bounce-back year once he concludes the rehab process.