Willson Contreras has been one of the best hitters in baseball since transitioning from catcher to first base ahead of the 2025 season.
The move was primarily made to keep Contreras' bat in the lineup, and the Boston Red Sox have reaped the benefits after acquiring him in a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals this past winter.
Across 360 at-bats with the Red Sox, the 34-year-old veteran has posted a .286 batting average, .393 on-base percentage, .931 OPS, 23 home runs and 69 RBIs. He has been huge for Boston in the second half as they push for another postseason appearance.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Unfortunately, Contreras was removed from Wednesday's game against the Chicago White Sox.
He was unexpectedly pulled in the top of the fifth inning with Anthony Seigler entering the lineup in his place and Nick Sogard taking over duties at first base.
Moments later, the team announced the reason for his early exit. "Willson Contreras was removed due to illness," reported Chris Cotillo of MassLive.
The positive outlook is that this is not anything injury-related and appears to be simply an illness he was unable to play through. Given that it is still August, there is no reason to push Contreras and risk his symptoms worsening.
Interim manager Chad Tracy will likely provide further updates on Contreras after the game, along with whether Red Sox fans can expect him back in the lineup Thursday for the series finale against the White Sox.
