Roman Anthony Received by the Red Sox: Reinforcement for the Offense
The Boston Red Sox have called up outfielder Roman Anthony, considered the number one prospect in baseball, hoping to revitalize the team after a difficult start to the season. The announcement was made on Monday, marking a significant moment for the organization.
Anthony, who will play in right field and bat fifth, joins the team in an attempt to improve on-field performance.We are trying to win games. The kid has done an incredible job preparing for this moment. We are excited. It’s a great day for the organization.
Alex Cora, Manager of the Red Sox
At 21 years old, Anthony arrives in the Major Leagues with an unusual maturity for his age. Selected in the second round of the 2022 draft, he advanced quickly through the minor leagues, excelling in Double-A in 2023 and dominating in Double-A and Triple-A in 2024. This season, he has demonstrated his power in Triple-A.
The Red Sox fans, frustrated by the team’s performance, had clamored for Anthony’s addition, seeing him as a potential solution to their problems.Anthony’s promotion comes after a 497-foot home run in Triple-A Worcester, the longest of the season in organized baseball.
At Triple-A, Anthony batted .288/.423/.491, with 10 home runs and 29 RBIs in 265 plate appearances. Known for his ability to evaluate pitches, the 6-foot-3-inch, 200-pound player drew 51 walks and struck out 56 times for Worcester.
Anthony’s position on the team has been a topic of debate, which has delayed his arrival to the main team. He was expected to share the field with Kristian Campbell and Marcelo Mayer, forming a promising trio. However, the team already has Jarren Duran in left field, Ceddanne Rafaela in center, and Wilyer Abreu in right. Abreu’s injury has opened a space for Anthony.
The arrival of Anthony could affect his free agency eligibility. If he doesn’t win the American League Rookie of the Year award, his eligibility could be delayed until after the 2031 season. Furthermore, he could lose the opportunity to be “Super Two,” which could save Boston a considerable amount of money.
Anthony has proven himself in the upper levels of the minor leagues. His discipline in the strike zone is notable, with an out-of-zone swing rate that places him among the best in the Major Leagues.
Boston could accommodate Anthony in the lineup by moving Rafaela to second base and Campbell to first base. Triston Casas’ injury and Alex Bregman’s absence also open up opportunities.
Despite expectations, the Red Sox have struggled. They lead MLB in errors and have a losing record in one-run games.