In a significant move that signals the organization’s commitment to the future, the Red Sox are promoting their top prospect, Roman Anthony, ahead of their series opener against the Rays. With sources confirming the news, the buzz around Fenway Park is palpable as fans eager to see the next big talent take the field.
On the day of his promotion, Anthony was noticeably absent from the WooSox’ bus to Allentown, Pa. Instead, he was loading up a car, preparing for the drive to Boston—an indicative sign of the whirlwind he’s about to embark on. As he left Polar Park, Anthony confirmed his promotion and is now set to wear No. 48 with the big league club.
In a tactical adjustment, Anthony fills the roster spot of Wilyer Abreu, who has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to an oblique strain sustained over the weekend in New York. This move necessitated a spot on the 40-man roster, leading the team to designate Triple-A first baseman/outfielder Ryan Noda for assignment.
Just hours before the promotion was confirmed, the Red Sox were not expecting Anthony to join the club in time for the game. However, with Abreu’s condition remaining uncertain, the team reached out to Worcester, leading to a swift decision to bring Anthony up. Initially, the lineup had Ceddanne Rafaela shifting to right field with Kristian Campbell in center, but with Anthony’s arrival, he is now set to take the right field position.
“This happened very fast. This was about Willy,” said manager Alex Cora, highlighting the need for a complete roster to ensure competitiveness. “We didn’t want to play short. To do that over three or five days, it’s hard. This is about protecting Willy and having a complete roster. It just so happens Roman was the guy. He’s gonna contribute.”
Cora acknowledged that once the team knew Abreu would miss time, promoting Anthony was the clear choice.
“We’re trying to win ballgames,” Cora added, emphasizing the talent Anthony has displayed during his development. “The kid has done an amazing job throughout getting ready for this moment. Obviously, not the way you want. Willy’s a great player, a great defender, a good at-bat. But he’ll be here. We’re excited.”
For the Red Sox organization, Anthony’s arrival is a significant milestone. The 21-year-old outfielder has become a consensus top prospect since being drafted with a $2.5 million signing bonus in 2022. His performance in Worcester has spoken volumes—boasting a .288 average, 10 home runs, 29 RBIs, and a stellar .913 OPS in just 58 games. The call for his promotion has gained momentum, particularly as the Red Sox have faced challenges offensively.
Now, Anthony joins the ranks of Boston’s “Big Three” prospects alongside Campbell and Marcelo Mayer, who made his major league debut earlier this season. Excitement was evident in Mayer’s words as he celebrated his friend’s promotion.
“It has been a long time coming,” Mayer noted in the clubhouse. “It’s kind of crazy today’s the day we’re all going to share the field together in the big leagues. I’m super excited. I think we have a really good team, and he’s just another addition.”
As the youngest player to don a Red Sox uniform since Rafael Devers made his debut in 2017, Anthony’s placement raises questions about where he will fit into the lineup moving forward. With Duran, Rafaela, and Abreu currently holding down the outfield positions, it’s anticipated that Anthony will eventually claim left field, allowing Duran to shift to center and Rafaela to adopt a super-utility role. For now, however, he’s set to make his debut in right field.
“This was more about Willy,” Cora reiterated, referring back to Abreu’s injury. “But we cannot play shorthanded for an extended period of time. It felt that way.”
Anthony has experience in the outfield, having played 243 innings in left, 89 ⅓ innings in center, and just 36 in right with the WooSox this season. Cora expressed confidence in Anthony’s ability to handle right field despite its challenges, particularly at Fenway Park.
“Today, it made sense to play him in right field,” Cora stated. “Jarren has done an amazing job in left field with the wall. Ceddanne is the top defender in center field. We trust Anthony to man the spacious position here.”
With Anthony in the lineup, the Red Sox are ready to see how this promising young talent can contribute to their push for success as the season heats up. It’s a moment filled with excitement and anticipation, both for the team and for the dedicated fans who have been waiting for this opportunity. Welcome to the big leagues, Roman Anthony—your journey is just beginning.
