Red Sox slugger Yoshida likely out for season's start

The Boston Red Sox are feeling positive as Opening Day approaches. They have strengthened their roster by trading for pitcher Garrett Crochet and signing veteran Walker Buehler. They also added top third baseman Alex Bregman in free agency, alongside promising young players ready to join the team. However, the team received bad news about slugger Masataka Yoshida. He underwent shoulder surgery last October and has not recovered as expected. Reports say he has not been cleared to play in the outfield. It is likely he will be placed on the injured list at the start of the 2025 season. Yoshida's absence has been anticipated for weeks. Red Sox manager Alex Cora indicated that it seems highly probable he will start the season on the injured list. Although Yoshida is considered one of the Red Sox's top hitters, his performance has been underwhelming since he signed a $90 million contract. He played in only 108 games in 2024, with a batting average of .285. With Bregman joining the team, Rafael Devers will likely take the primary designated hitter role. This situation means Yoshida could struggle to find playing time, even once he is healthy. The team has several strong outfield candidates, making it difficult for him to return to his previous position. Given the team's roster challenges and Yoshida's large contract, a trade might be a complicated option. The Red Sox will need to consider their strategy moving forward.