Red Sox delay Masataka Yoshida's return for health reasons

Masataka Yoshida is recovering from shoulder surgery and is expected to start the 2025 season on the injured list. The Boston Red Sox are being cautious with his rehabilitation, choosing to wait until he is able to throw before returning to the big leagues. Yoshida, who mainly served as the team's designated hitter last year, has been hitting well in spring training. He has a .281 batting average, with one home run and seven RBIs in 11 games. However, he has not yet played in the outfield during games. Manager Alex Cora confirmed that Yoshida will likely spend the first week of the regular season in Fort Myers, where he will continue his rehab. He may join Triple-A Worcester after a week, but he still needs to improve his throwing ability before playing in the majors. Yoshida signed a five-year, $90 million contract with the Red Sox and his position is uncertain with Rafael Devers occupying the designated hitter spot. Competing for outfield time will also be challenging due to other players on the roster and top prospects waiting in the wings. Despite the uncertainty, Cora believes in Yoshida's hitting skills and sees him as a key part of the lineup when he returns to full health. The Red Sox are taking their time with his recovery to ensure they have depth for the season.