The Boston Red Sox are preparing for the return of Wilyer Abreu, who began a rehab assignment on Tuesday with Triple-A Worcester following a left oblique strain. The timing of his rehab return performance update comes as the team seeks to fill the void left by the recent trade of three-time All-Star Rafael Devers.

Abreu’s First Performance Post-Injury with Worcester

In his first game back on the rehab trail, Abreu took the designated hitter role and batted second for Worcester. Although he went 1-for-4 at the plate, he drove in a run with an RBI single in the fifth inning, giving his team a 2-0 advantage. Abreu later scored on an RBI double by Vaughn Grissom and was replaced in the eighth inning by pinch-hitter Corey Rosier.

Expected Timeline and Role Upon Return

Abreu is expected to rejoin the Red Sox on Friday, which is the earliest date he can be activated from the injured list. The team’s upcoming three-game series against the San Francisco Giants may see him getting some additional playing time in the field for Worcester before the roster adjustment occurs. Given Boston’s crowded outfield situation and the recent changes to the lineup, Abreu might see more time as a designated hitter upon his full return.

Abreu’s Stats Before Injury and Team Outlook

Before being sidelined, Abreu was batting .245 with 13 home runs and 32 RBIs. His presence is seen as vital to adding offensive power following Devers’ departure, as Boston looks to stabilize its lineup. The rehab stint will serve as a key step toward assessing his readiness to contribute at the major league level once again.