For all but 23 games this year, Boston Red Sox fans have clamored for updates on the squad's new second baseman, Vaughn Grissom.
The 23-year-old has fought through two strained hamstrings and a bout with the flu to get to his current rehab assignment with the WooSox. But even after his rehab ends, he may stay there.
Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic reports that the Red Sox may choose to option Grissom to Triple-A when he reaches the 20-day maximum of his rehab assignment on August 9 — a shocking development from the club that has awaited his return almost all season.
McCaffrey said Boston has reservations about Grissom's condition when he returns. Management is uncertain he'll be able to play his best after months on the sidelines. If the Sox are going to battle for an American League wild card spot, they can't have Grissom playing catch-up in the big leagues.
The Red Sox may option Vaughn Grissom to Triple-A after his rehab assignment ends on Aug. 9
NEW: Vaughn Grissom needs to be activated from the IL by Aug. 9, but sources indicate he may be optioned to Worcester once his rehab clock is up.
— Jen McCaffrey (@jcmccaffrey) July 29, 2024
With that in mind, the team is still seeking a right-handed infielder ahead of the deadline: https://t.co/MjNEHebOfc
Alex Cora said the Red Sox plan to be patient with Grissom. They're still confident in his abilities as a player, they're just waiting for the young infielder to be "the best version" of himself. Throwing him in the middle of a push for the postseason when he's only played 23 games at the big league level this season isn't advisable.
But holding Grissom in Worcester deprives the Red Sox of a right-handed bat they expected to have in the lineup. There are a few hours until the 2024 trade deadline, and there are still right-handed options available the Sox could pursue.
Pitching has been the front office's primary concern before July 30, and the front office traded for James Paxton and Quinn Priester to bring some rotation depth. Now that Boston may not play Grissom in the majors this year, adding another righty bat before the deadline may become even more important.