The Boston Red Sox brought Triston Casas back from the 60-day injured list on Friday, hoping his return will add some power to their lineup, which has been missing a strong hitter.
Casas had 24 home runs and an .856 OPS last season, finishing third in the AL Rookie of the Year voting. He had hit six home runs in 78 at-bats this season before going on the injured list on April 21 due to a left ribcage strain.
After a long recovery, the 24-year-old first baseman returned to the lineup on Friday night, batting third against the Baltimore Orioles.
“Hitting home runs is important, and that’s what he brings to the team,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “We’ve been scoring runs and hitting well, but adding home runs will be beneficial for us.”
To make space for Casas, the Red Sox designated first baseman/designated hitter Dominic Smith for assignment. In his first year with Boston, Smith hit .237 with six home runs and 34 RBIs in 83 games.
“He was outstanding,” Cora said. “It was a tough decision, but it was clear we needed to make room.”
Smith, who previously played six seasons with the New York Mets and joined Washington last year, was valued for his leadership in the clubhouse.
“In the clubhouse, he was very important. Always positive and ready to go,” Cora said. “It wasn’t easy to let him go. I hope someone picks him up, as he’s a good player and still young.”
Despite losing six of their last eight games, the Red Sox are still in the AL wild-card race and are also expecting a boost with the return of outfielder Tyler O’Neill on Saturday. O’Neill has been out since August 4 due to a left leg infection and is batting .268 with 22 home runs in 80 games.
