Triston Casas injury update puts Red Sox return timeline in perilous territory

Both the Boston Red Sox and Triston Casas hoped the slugging first baseman would be back in the lineup by now.

He's been sidelined since April 20 with a rib cartilage injury and Casas initially set an optimistic return date of June 21. Later, it was pushed back to July 1. But he may not be ready until late July or August.

Boston has reported that Casas has taken "dry swings," meaning he's swinging a bat without making contact with a baseball. That news throws his latest return date of "after the All-Star break" into question.

Casas is expected to hit balls off a tee this week, but there are still multiple steps in his way of a return to game action. He'll need to progress through live batting practice and a rehab assignment before he can be reinstated to Boston's roster, which will likely take a few weeks.

Triston Casas' return to Red Sox lineup will take a few more weeks, still hasn't hit a ball

Red Sox manager Alex Cora reported that Casas has "felt better" after taking dry swings. Barring any further setbacks, August 1 could be a more realistic return date for the slugger, although Boston hasn't provided any clear timelines.

The Sox have played well throughout June and early July, and the offense has been firing on all cylinders. Casas' bat will only strengthen his squad — for now, he's providing a morale boost from the bench.

Boston's injured first baseman interviewed its current first baseman, Dominic Smith, after its July 9 game against the A's. He's made multiple appearances on ESPN and NESN as an interviewer and an interviewee. Fans have praised Casas for his baseball knowledge and comfort in front of the camera, and he's making the most of his time on the shelf.

Even though he's been out of action, Casas has supported his teammates through their hot stretch. He clearly wants to get back to work with his team, but there are still a few steps remaining in his recovery that will take a few weeks to complete.

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