The Boston Red Sox begin spring training games Saturday and The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reported some injuries that could affect the team until Opening Day.
Jarren Duran and Vaughn Grissom are both healing injuries and will be unavailable for some spring training matches. Both are projected to be available for Opening Day with an estimated return to action on March 1.
Duran is still in recovery from toe surgery that he underwent at the end of last season. After getting turf toe, Duran left the Sox in August and his absence wasn't great for the team — the lack of spark at the top of the batting order played a big part in the team's late-season decline.
In Duran's absence, skipper Alex Cora will need to find a new leadoff hitter — Bobby Dalbec is working on his defensive versatility and has been practicing in the outfield, so he could be a possible option.
Jarren Duran and Vaughn Grissom will be sidelined for the first few Red Sox spring training games
Vaughn Grissom (hammies) and Jarren Duran (coming back from toe surgery) will both make their Spring Training debuts sometime around March 1.
— Ian Browne (@IanMBrowne) February 23, 2024
Trade rumors have swirled around Duran and the Padres have reportedly expressed interest in an exchange involving the speedy center fielder. The rumors have recently stalled, though, and Duran's recovery could be playing a part in the delay (or, of course, the Red Sox are coming to their senses and don't want to move him).
Grissom has been dealing with hamstring issues and is being eased back into play. Boston acquired the second baseman from the Braves in exchange for Chris Sale this winter. Grissom spent the majority of last season in Triple-A and this injury could be delaying his development as he looks to be a key player for the Sox in 2024.
The team does not consider Grissom's injury to be serious and, like Duran, he's expected to be able to play on March 1. He's set to be Boston's everyday second baseman for the coming season, but the early missed time in spring training could play a role in a potential slow start.
With Opening Day approaching on March 28, Duran and Grissom's recoveries are crucial. If all goes according to plan, they'll get adequate playing time in the Grapefruit League before the season starts, and they'll both definitely need that because of the steps they're expected to take.