When the Boston Red Sox open their final series of the 2022 season on Monday at Fenway Park, they’ll have an unexpected option for their last few lineups.
On Sunday, manager Alex Cora told Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe (subscription required) that “there’s a good chance” Eric Hosmer will be activated for the three-game set against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Hosmer last played on August 20, which was only his 12th game with the Sox after the San Diego Padres dealt him to Boston at the deadline. He’d gone 9-for-40 with three doubles before back inflammation put him on the Injured List with several of his new teammates. For a while, it looked like his season was over, but according to Cora, he wants to get back in the game, so the Sox will have him start one of the remaining three contests.
For several reasons, it’s an interesting roster move. The Sox are so far out of the playoff race that it may as well be happening on another planet; neither Hosmer nor anyone else can save this season. The minor-league season is over, so Hosmer has not been able to do a rehab stint. Instead, he’s been working out at Fenway with a pitching simulator Cora describes as “very expensive” and “pretty cool.”
Above all, with Triston Casas thriving, why bring Hosmer back?
To show any teams looking for a first baseman this offseason that he’s healthy.
Will the Red Sox try to trade Eric Hosmer this offseason?
Bringing Hosmer to Boston at the deadline made sense in three ways. Bobby Dalbec and Franchy Cordero couldn’t handle the job, and Hosmer is a four-time Gold Glover at the position. The Padres are paying the remainder of the contract, so the Sox are only on the hook for the major-league minimum. Most importantly, Hosmer and Casas go way back; they went to the same high school (several years apart) and the veteran has been a role model to the rookie for a long time. The Sox hoped Hosmer’s guidance would help lay a strong foundation for the prospect’s big-league future, and it has.
But for all the same reasons, the Sox can afford to trade Hosmer now. As valuable as his mentorship may be to Casas, they don’t need two lefty hitters playing the same position, especially when they use Hosmer’s value to get something (or someone) else they need.
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