Red Sox’s Wilyer Abreu May Miss Key Series Against Orioles

The Boston Red Sox could be without outfielder Wilyer Abreu when they face the Baltimore Orioles in a two-game series beginning on March 4, 2024. Abreu exited Sunday’s game against Miami due to tightness in his right calf after scoring on a sacrifice fly that helped Boston take a 3-1 lead in the seventh inning. Although he contributed two hits, including a two-run home run, the injury leaves his availability in question for the upcoming matchups.

Following the game, Abreu expressed optimism about avoiding a stint on the injured list, stating, “I don’t think it’s an IL. I don’t think that’s necessary.” He described the discomfort as a cramp, adding that he is currently day-to-day and hopes to return to the lineup shortly. “Probably take two or three days and be ready for New York,” he noted, as the Red Sox prepare for a four-game series against the New York Yankees starting on March 7.

The Red Sox enter this series trailing the Toronto Blue Jays by five games in the American League East. Despite a promising lead against Miami, Boston ultimately fell 5-3 after a ninth-inning rally by the Marlins. Pitcher Garrett Crochet delivered a solid performance, allowing just one run over seven innings and striking out eight batters, but he was unable to secure his 14th victory of the season. “As long as we keep stacking series wins and moving in the right direction, it’s hard to harp on a loss when we just won the series,” Crochet said.

Meanwhile, the Orioles are riding a wave of momentum, having won four of their last five games. They recently completed a successful series against the Houston Astros, including a commanding 12-0 victory on Sunday. Jordan Westburg emerged as a standout performer, contributing four hits, a three-run home run, and a career-high five RBIs in that game. “We have some young guys helping us out and we’re playing good baseball right now,” Westburg commented, highlighting the team’s current form.

On the mound for the Red Sox, right-hander Dustin May is set to make his third start since being acquired from the Dodgers at the trade deadline. May has faced the Orioles once in his career, pitching two scoreless innings in September 2019. He holds a record of 7-8 with a 4.67 ERA this season. Opposing him will be left-handed pitcher Trevor Rogers, who boasts a remarkable 1.43 ERA with a 5-2 record. Rogers has a history against the Red Sox, having allowed two runs in 18 1/3 innings over four career starts.

As the Red Sox look to regain ground in the division, Abreu’s status will be closely monitored. The outcome of this series could have significant implications for both teams as they aim to solidify their positions in the playoff race.