The Boston Red Sox reportedly have massive plans for the trade deadline that looms just hours away, likely including at least one more offensive addition and some pitching help. They may also get a critical homegown bat back at a pivotal moment.
Finally, after he's spent nearly three months on the injured list, the Red Sox have issued a positive update on Roman Anthony's recovery from a partially-torn ligament in his ring finger down by his wrist. Anthony has begun swinging a bat and hitting off a tee, according to Alex Speier of The Boston Globe.
Anthony's inability to swing has been holding him back throughout his recovery process. The Sox's recovery strategy differed throughout his IL stint so far — first, the Red Sox said his recovery was based on pain management, but they later pivoted to waiting until he's entirely symptom-free to begin his hitting progression. Finally, he must be pain-free.
Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy noted that Anthony will probably just be swinging for some time, suggesting he could have a long ramp-up process ahead (subscription required). Tracy did not put a timeline on his recovery, which is probably for the best, as Boston has struggled to nail timelines down this year (remember when the Red Sox didn't think Anthony would need an IL stint at all?).
Red Sox announce Roman Anthony is finally swinging a bat, hand injury recovery progresses
It could take weeks for Anthony to reach the point where he can go on a rehab assignment, then he'll likely need a full, 20-day rehab stint before he's activated. The Red Sox might not see him until September, but at this point, they're lucky to get him back at all.
Anthony struggled at the plate to start the season. He slashed .229/.354/.321 with five doubles, a triple and a home run over 30 games. He was just beginning to hit his stride when he fell injured and he slashed .269/.345/.346 in his last seven games.
If Anthony has anything close to the impact he did when he arrived last season (.859 OPS in 71 games after his major league debut), he'll be an excellent addition to Boston's playoff push at any time. If the Red Sox add another bat before the trade deadline after Curtis Mead's injury, their offense could be the best it's been all year at just the right time to make a serious playoff push in a tight American League race.
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