The Boston Red Sox are dealing with another illness concern after designated hitter Masataka Yoshida missed his second straight game on Sunday. The absence comes just as first baseman Willson Contreras returned to the club following his own illness.
Christopher Smith of MassLive reported on X that Yoshida has been sidelined by illness over the last couple of days, giving Boston another lineup issue as it continues its series against the Athletics.
Contreras returned to Fenway Park after recovering from the illness that briefly kept him away from the team. However, manager Chad Tracy is now without Yoshida, whose absence removes another experienced left-handed bat from the lineup during an important stretch of the season.
The Red Sox will hope Yoshida's absence is brief. The veteran is batting .273 with five home runs, 26 RBIs and a .346 on-base percentage in 2026, providing steady production in a designated hitter and corner outfield role.
Contreras has been one of Boston's top offensive performers this season. The veteran first baseman is hitting .287 with 23 home runs, 70 RBIs and a .936 OPS after returning from the illness that temporarily sidelined him.
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Boston has also been managing several other injury concerns. Trevor Story continues to work back from sports hernia surgery, while left-hander Garrett Crochet remains on the injured list as he progresses through his throwing program.
Despite the health setbacks, the Red Sox remain firmly in the American League postseason race. Boston entered Sunday with a 64-52 record, sitting third in the AL East and holding a Wild Card position. Keeping both Contreras and Yoshida available down the stretch could play a key role as the club looks to gain ground in the division while strengthening its playoff chances.
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