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Adley Rutschman Makes Strong First Impression With Red Sox originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Red Sox received an encouraging glimpse of what Adley Rutschman could bring to their lineup during the catcher’s first game in the organization. Rutschman began a Minor League rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester on Saturday, just five days after Boston acquired the three-time All-Star from the Baltimore Orioles in a blockbuster trade.
Playing in his first game since July 18 because of left wrist inflammation, Rutschman doubled, walked twice, scored two runs and threw out a runner attempting to steal. It was a well-rounded performance from one of Boston’s most important additions.
Rutschman Wastes Little Time Making An Impact
Rutschman immediately showed that his time away had not diminished his defensive instincts. Lehigh Valley’s Colby Thomas attempted to steal second base during the first inning, but Rutschman delivered an accurate throw to erase him. The 28-year-old remained behind the plate for five innings before the WooSox removed him as part of a carefully managed return.
Rutschman also looked comfortable at the plate. He drove a two-run double, reached base twice more with walks and crossed home plate two times. That production represented an especially promising sign because wrist trouble can affect a hitter’s timing and power even after he is cleared to return. Rutschman’s ability to drive the baseball in his first competitive game in three weeks suggested he may not need a lengthy stay in Worcester.
The Red Sox still plan to proceed cautiously. According to MLB.com’s Ian Browne, Rutschman is expected to serve as Worcester’s designated hitter Sunday. Boston then will determine whether he needs another rehab game or is ready to join the Major League club in Toronto.
The Red Sox open a four-game road series against the Blue Jays on Monday night.
“When you’re talking about a player of his caliber and how long he’s been around, I think he knows his body,” Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said, per MLB.com. “And then you also trust the medical staff.”
Tracy also noted Boston will not ask Rutschman to catch five consecutive games immediately after his activation.
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Red Sox Could Soon Add Another Major Weapon
Rutschman’s impending arrival has the potential to make one of baseball’s hottest teams even more dangerous. Boston entered the weekend having won nine consecutive games before suffering a loss to the Athletics on Saturday. That defeat did little to erase the momentum the Red Sox have created over the past six weeks.
Now, they are preparing to incorporate a catcher who already has earned three All-Star selections and has extensive experience handling a pitching staff in the American League East. Rutschman’s offensive production declined during his final stretch with Baltimore, but his history suggests there is considerable upside. He recorded an .809 OPS with 20 home runs in 2023 before being selected to his first All-Star Game as a starter. A change of scenery and a move to hitter-friendly Fenway Park could help him rediscover that level of production.
His first rehab performance was only one game, and the Red Sox will want to see how his wrist responds before making a final decision. Still, Rutschman accomplished nearly everything Boston could have hoped for in his organizational debut. He reached base three times, delivered an extra-base hit and made an immediate defensive contribution.
If Sunday brings another positive response, Rutschman’s first appearance in a Red Sox uniform might not be far away.
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