Ceddanne Rafaela Suffers New Injury in Return to Red Sox Lineup

A Brief Return

Boston Red Sox center fielder Ceddanne Rafaela had a frustrating return to the lineup on Wednesday. After missing weeks with an injury, he had to leave the game against the Cleveland Guardians in the third inning.

Rafaela had just been activated from the injured list before the game. He had been sidelined since Sept. 3 with a right quad strain. To make room for him on the roster, the Red Sox optioned infielder and outfielder Nate Eaton to Triple A Worcester.

How the Injury Happened

Rafaela started the game in center field and made an immediate impact. On the third pitch of the game, he made a headlong diving catch to rob Steven Kwan in right center field. He went on to handle all three putouts in the first inning.

His luck changed in the second inning when he singled off the Green Monster. Rafaela pulled up lame at the first base bag. Manager Chad Tracy and a trainer came out to check on him. After jogging a bit down the right field foul line, Rafaela decided to stay in the game.

He trotted out to center field for the top of the third inning but quickly realized he could not continue. He walked off the field and was replaced by Jarren Duran. The team later announced that Rafaela left the game with tightness in his right hamstring.

Impact on the Red Sox

Losing Rafaela again is a tough blow for Boston. Last season's Gold Glove winner was batting .284 with 16 home runs and 70 RBIs entering Wednesday's game. His defensive range and solid hitting will be missed if he has to sit out again.

What it means for the next game

Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox (MLB, Thu, 24 Sep): Boston Red Sox win 46%, Cleveland Guardians win 54%; projected score Boston Red Sox 4, Cleveland Guardians 4. Our safest pick: Red Sox +2.5.

Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox (MLB, Fri, 25 Sep): Boston Red Sox win 43%, Chicago Cubs win 57%; projected score Boston Red Sox 4, Chicago Cubs 5. Our safest pick: Under 11.5 runs.