Yoshida Returns as Red Sox Eye Wild Card

Masataka Yoshida returned to the Boston Red Sox after missing 93 games due to shoulder surgery, going 3-for-4 with an RBI as designated hitter in a win over the Colorado Rockies. Despite his strong performance, Yoshida was not in the starting lineup for the following series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays, as manager Alex Cora manages a crowded outfield including Ceddanne Rafaela, Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu, and rookie Roman Anthony. Nate Eaton was optioned to Triple-A Worcester to make space for Yoshida’s return. The Red Sox are on a hot streak, sitting just behind the Mariners for the last AL Wild Card spot and in close contention in the AL East, making the upcoming series against the Rays crucial before the All-Star break. Yoshida's playing time will be managed carefully amid roster depth and trade deadline uncertainty. His return strengthens the lineup at a pivotal moment for Boston’s playoff push.