Willson Contreras remains uncertain for the Boston Red Sox as the postseason approaches after revealing that his right hand still hurts when he tries to swing.
Contreras was hit on the hand by a pitch from Texas Rangers reliever Jakob Junis on Sept. 17. Initial X-rays were negative, but the injury has continued to affect his ability to hit.
After Thursday’s 1-0 loss to the Cleveland Guardians, Contreras said he tried to swing on Wednesday and Thursday but could not do it because of the pain.
“As of now I don’t think I’m playing tomorrow,” Contreras said, while explaining that he and the team’s trainers are continuing to work on his hand.
The setback comes at an important time for Boston. Contreras has been one of the Red Sox’s most productive hitters this season and returned from a left hamstring strain earlier this month. He was activated Sept. 13 after missing time with the injury.
Contreras entered the final weekend with 27 home runs and 81 RBIs, giving Boston another major middle-of-the-order bat when healthy. His absence would leave the Red Sox without one of their most productive hitters as they prepare for October.
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The good news is that the initial imaging did not reveal a fracture. However, the continued pain has prevented Contreras from returning to the lineup, leaving his postseason status unclear.
For now, Contreras is taking the injury day by day. The Red Sox will have to wait for his hand to improve before determining whether he can contribute when the playoffs begin.
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