Masataka Yoshida's Return Bolsters Red Sox Lineup, Creates Roster Decisions
After an extended absence of 93 games, Masataka Yoshida has rejoined the Boston Red Sox active roster, providing a significant boost to their offensive capabilities. However, his return also introduces further complexity to an already crowded outfield situation.
Yoshida's recovery from major right shoulder surgery last October has been a long process. While he participated in Grapefruit League games during spring training, his involvement was limited to designated hitter (DH) duties as his shoulder continued to heal. The Red Sox initially hoped to have him available for outfield play by the start of the regular season, but the recovery process required additional time as he progressed through his throwing program.
A Shift in Designated Hitter Dynamics
Interestingly, the initial urgency to have Yoshida ready for outfield duties stemmed from Rafael Devers' consistent presence in the DH role. However, a trade involving Devers last month, which sent him to San Francisco, unexpectedly created a vacancy at the DH position. Yoshida is now poised to fill this role, at least when facing right-handed pitching.
Manager Alex Cora expressed his enthusiasm for Yoshida's return, recalling his impressive performance prior to an injection he received in Kansas City during the 2023 season. Cora stated that Yoshida was "probably one of the best lefties in the game" during that period. He acknowledged that Yoshida played through an injury last year, which restricted his outfield appearances.
Progress and Optimism
Cora emphasized the progress Yoshida has made since undergoing surgery, noting that he has overcome setbacks and now appears to be in excellent form. "You can see it in BP now — he’s backspinning the ball the way he did in ‘23," Cora observed. He praised Yoshida's approach at the plate, describing him as having "a good at-bat, a patient at-bat," and highlighting his ability to "put the ball in play with men in scoring position" and "drive the ball when he needs to."
The Impact of the Shoulder Injury
Yoshida's shoulder issue significantly impacted his power hitting last season, limiting his ability to fully follow through on his swings. This resulted in quicker at-bats. Now, with improved shoulder health, he has the potential to extend at-bats and generate more power.
A Comparison of Slugging Percentages
In his rookie year with the Red Sox, Yoshida recorded a respectable .445 slugging percentage. However, this figure dipped to .415 last year due to the limitations imposed by his shoulder injury.
Expectations for Improved Performance
Cora expressed his expectations for Yoshida's performance, stating, "We expect him to hit the ball in the air. We expect better at-bats." He believes that Yoshida will now be able to "go back to working counts and looking for pitches in his honey hole and drive them," emphasizing that he is "a lot stronger now than he was two years ago."
Yoshida's Perspective
When asked if the Red Sox have yet to see his best performance, considering the adjustments he made in his first season and the injury he dealt with last year, Yoshida agreed.
"I would say so," he said through a translator. "I think every year, guys are improving and I am improving, too. I just want to show what I can do on the field and I’m ready to compete."
Potential for First Base
While in Worcester, Yoshida spent some time working out at first base. However, as Cora indicated, this was primarily a contingency plan to provide flexibility for late-game substitutions.
Yoshida himself stated, "We haven’t talked about that yet," regarding the possibility of playing first base in the major leagues.
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