The Boston Red Sox’s spring training would be much smoother if it weren’t for an illness ravaging the clubhouse. Several players have been sidelined at parts throughout the last few weeks due to a mysterious illness, leaving time to tell if the Red Sox can get back to full health before Opening Day 2025.
Rookie outfielder Roman Anthony is one of the Red Sox who’s been affected by the ailment. The top prospect hasn’t made an exhibition since March 2, and while his health has been trending in the right direction, his latest medical update will likely concern Boston fans.
Red Sox Injury News: Roman Anthony Lost 10-12 Pounds Due to Illness
Just a few hours before Saturday’s 9-8 loss to the Minnesota Twins, Red Sox manager Alex Cora revealed that Anthony has “lost 10-12 pounds this week” from the flu. Although the 20-year-old OF returned to practice this weekend, he won’t play a game until Tuesday at the earliest, according to The Athletic‘s Jen McCaffrey.
Anthony’s situation reiminiscent of something Boston fans dealt with a year ago.
It was in spring training 2024 when Red Sox shortstop/second baseman Vaughn Grissom was hampered by an illness that caused him to lose around 14 pounds. Even though injuries also played a factor, Grissom wasn’t the same player after being sick, and the last thing Boston fans want is a similar outcome for Anthony.
A 2022 second-round pick, Anthony is currently MLB.com’s No. 2 prospect ahead of the 2025 campaign. The West Palm Beach, FL native continues to get better with each passing year and is coming off a 2024 season that saw him rack up 18 home runs, 65 RBIs, 79 walks, 21 stolen bases, and a .291/.396/.498 slash line in 119 appearances across Triple-A Worcester and Double-A Portland.
Hopefully, Anthony can put back on any weight he lost and return to form so that he can crack Cora’s Opening Day lineup. The Red Sox’s outlook is looking positive for the first time in a long time, and it would be great if the 6-foot-2 top prospect is healthy enough to help the club achieve early success.
In the meantime, the Red Sox will focus on Sunday’s spring training showdown with the Atlanta Braves. The afternoon action can be viewed on NESN 360 and Gray TV at 1:05 p.m. ET.
