The big story surrounding the Boston Red Sox on Thursday was the demotion of rookie Kristian Campbell to Triple-A Worcester.
While that is disappointing news, it provides Campbell with an opportunity to rediscover his swing and confidence. The better news is that the Red Sox will activate outfielder Wilyer Abreu this weekend, according to multiple sources.
The soon-to-be 25-year-old was having a productive campaign in his second full season with Boston. Abreu has a .245 batting average, a .792 OPS, a 119 OPS+, 13 home runs (already approaching his career high of 15), 32 RBIs, and a 24:54 BB:K ratio.
While Abreu’s slugging may slow down, particularly coming off an oblique injury, he is still a budding star for the Red Sox. His advanced batting metrics all look fantastic, even without making top-notch contact, and his defense is still superb.
Wilyer Abreu steps into the batter’s box in the first inning at Polar Parkon on June 17.
Rick Cinclair/Telegram & Gazette / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Abreu already has a +3 Defensive Run Value this year and is proving that his 2024 Gold Glove was no fluke. His range, arm, and defensive senses are all impressive, especially without elite speed.
Abreu’s return does create a bit of a logjam in the outfield, as Jarren Duran (.258 batting average, .724 OPS, 101 OPS+) and Ceddanne Rafaela (.247 batting average, .681 OPS, 89 OPS+) should retain everyday roles.
There is the Roman Anthony element of this, and he could see more designated hitter reps in the coming weeks. His MLB career is off to a slow start, with a .074 batting average, a .416 OPS, and a 17 OPS+ over his first nine games and 27 at-bats.
However, he is still the Red Sox’s top prospect, and limiting his opportunities based on such a small sample size feels ill-advised.
