BALTIMORE — Mickey Gasper has been making significant contributions for the Boston Red Sox, showcasing his skills at the plate and in the field. Over the last 16 games, Gasper has recorded eight home runs, four doubles, and 14 RBIs, while boasting an impressive .525 on-base percentage. His offensive prowess is complemented by his defensive capabilities, particularly as he steps in for the injured Willson Contreras.
Contreras, the regular first baseman for the Red Sox, is currently on the 10-day injured list due to a left hamstring strain. Gasper's ability to fill this crucial role has been noted by interim manager Chad Tracy, who expressed confidence in Gasper's experience at first base. "I wasn’t as worried about that as maybe (some) people,” Tracy commented, emphasizing Gasper's extensive background in the position. With over 200 games played at first base in the minors and nine starts in the majors, Gasper has proven he can handle the responsibilities effectively.
Since Contreras was placed on the injured list on August 31, Gasper has made five starts at first base, demonstrating his versatility and reliability. Tracy further elaborated on Gasper's defensive skills, stating, "He’s done it before. That being said, he has picked, I don’t know, five or six balls in the last four or five games, some of which have come with multiple runners on base and have been really important.” This highlights Gasper's ability to perform under pressure, a valuable trait for any team vying for success.
In addition to first base, Gasper has also started games at catcher and designated hitter this season. His adaptability has been crucial for the Red Sox as they navigate a challenging season. Gasper himself noted the similarities between picking balls at first base and catching, stating, “Picking is like catching. You’ve just gotta put your face in front of it and keep your eye on it.”
As for Contreras, there is optimism regarding his recovery. Tracy indicated that the team hopes Contreras will be ready to return when first eligible on September 11 against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park. “He’s doing baseball activities,” Tracy reported. “He’s throwing. Last I saw, he’s hitting off a tee. ... So he had the rest period. He’s starting to just increase and introduce baseball activities so long as they don’t irritate it. So last check-in on him, he was in a good spot.”
Meanwhile, the Red Sox are also managing the injuries of several other players. Right-handed pitchers Tanner Houck, Garrett Crochet, and Johan Oviedo are on track for potential returns. Houck is set to begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday after pitching a simulated game, while Crochet is progressing through bullpen sessions. Oviedo, who has been sidelined since April with a right elbow strain, is also nearing a return.
In other lineup news, Ceddanne Rafaela is out for a third consecutive game due to a tight right quad muscle. The Red Sox are currently monitoring his condition closely, aiming to avoid placing him on the injured list. Interim manager Tracy stated, “But I want to talk through the timetable on what that looks like as far as timing coming back.”
With Gasper stepping up and the potential return of Contreras and other injured players, the Red Sox are looking to build momentum as they head deeper into the season. The team's ability to adapt in the face of injuries will be crucial as they strive for a successful finish.
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