The Boston Red Sox reinstated Triston Casas from the 60-day injured list on Friday, hoping his return would bring much-needed power back to their lineup. Casas, who finished third in the AL Rookie of the Year voting last season with 24 home runs and an .856 OPS, had hit six home runs in 78 at-bats this season before being sidelined on April 21 with a left ribcage strain.
Following an extended recovery, the 24-year-old first baseman rejoined the lineup Friday night, batting third against the Baltimore Orioles.
“Hitting home runs is crucial, and that’s what Casas offers,” said Boston manager Alex Cora. “We’ve been scoring runs and hitting well, but adding more home runs will only help us.”
To make room for Casas, the Red Sox designated first baseman/designated hitter Dominic Smith for assignment. In his first season with Boston, Smith posted a .237 average with six home runs and 34 RBIs over 83 games.
“He was outstanding,” Cora said. “It was a tough decision, but we needed to clear space.”
Smith, who spent six seasons with the New York Mets before joining Washington last year, was also valued for his leadership in the clubhouse.
“In the clubhouse, he was crucial. Always positive and ready to contribute,” Cora added. “Letting him go wasn’t easy. I hope another team picks him up; he’s a good player and still has potential.”
Despite losing six of their last eight games, the Red Sox remain in the AL wild-card race and are looking forward to another boost with the return of outfielder Tyler O’Neill on Saturday. O’Neill, out since August 4 with a left leg infection, is batting .268 with 22 home runs in 80 games this season.
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