The Boston Red Sox are currently taking on the Baltimore Orioles in a three-game weekend set. On Friday, Brayan Bello got roughed up by giving up five home runs and eight earned runs. The Red Sox lost 10-3.
It’s a very early start (12:05) on Saturday, but the Red Sox have ace Garrett Crochet taking the ball. However, the Red Sox will be without Roman Anthony for a fourth straight game.
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Red Sox Without Roman Anthony Again…
GettyBALTIMORE, MARYLAND – AUGUST 25: Roman Anthony #19 of the Boston Red Sox rounds the bases after hitting a home run against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 25, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Per the Red Sox lineup ahead of the Orioles game on Saturday, Roman Anthony is not featured in it, meaning he’s missing his fourth straight game. He is dealing with a sore back, but the Red Sox could use his services about now.
Alex Cora said this to reporters before the game:
“Even at 4:00, he wasn’t going to play,” Alex Cora said to reporters before the game on Saturday afternoon. “He’s going to hit today and we’ll see how it goes. He’s actually going to the cage. He’s moving a lot better so hopefully he’s available today after his progression. Hopefully, we get him in the lineup tomorrow and if not, Monday.”
With Roman Anthony out again, Ceddanne Rafaela will hit leadoff and play center field. Jarren Duran will take Anthony’s place in left field.
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When Will Roman Anthony Return?
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 17: Roman Anthony #19 of the Boston Red Sox walks off of the field after hitting a flyout against the Detroit Tigers during the sixth inning at Fenway Park on April 17, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Roman Anthony tweaked his back earlier in the week against the New York Yankees, and he’s yet to return to the lineup.
Anthony spoke to the media after one of the Red Sox’s recent losses and indicated that this issue is separate from a back issue that sidelined him last season.
In a non-encouraging development, Roman Anthony is starting to rack up injuries that should concern Boston fans.
He’s hitting just .225 with one home run, one triple, and three doubles in 22 games this season.
It’s a very early start in Baltimore due to forecasted weather, but it should be a good pitchers’ duel, with Garrett Crochet facing fellow southpaw Trevor Rogers. The Red Sox have lost five straight games.
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Boston Red Sox Make Roman Anthony Decision Before Orioles Game