Red Sox Expect Willson Contreras Back Sunday Following Concussion Testing

Willson Contreras missed Saturday's 3-2 win against the Dodgers for concussion protocols but is expected to return for the series finale.

Boston interim manager Chad Tracy expects All-Star first baseman Willson Contreras to return to the lineup for Sunday's series finale against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Red Sox held Contreras out of Saturday night's 3-2 victory at Dodger Stadium while he underwent concussion testing. This medical evaluation followed an incident during Friday's series opener, a 9-4 Boston win, where Contreras was struck on the side of his helmet by a 95 mph fastball in the third inning. The pitch was delivered by Los Angeles reliever Will Klein.

Contreras currently maintains a .288 batting average and has recorded 23 home runs alongside 67 RBIs this season. During the third-inning plate appearance on Friday, the first pitch from Klein was inside, forcing Contreras to hit the dirt before the subsequent fastball made contact with his headgear. Although the medical staff checked on him immediately and he initially headed to first base, he eventually left the game. Tracy indicated that the All-Star should be ready for the upcoming game in Los Angeles, provided he passes a final morning run-through of tests without any surprises.

Roster Adjustments During Saturday's Win

With Contreras sidelined for the middle game of the series, the Red Sox started Nick Sogard at first base. Batting in the sixth position, Sogard finished the night 0-for-2 at the plate but managed to draw one walk. Despite the absence of their primary power hitter, Boston secured a narrow one-run victory to follow up their five-run margin of victory from the previous night. The Saturday night contest concluded with a 3-2 scoreline in favor of the visiting team.

Injury Details and Recovery Protocol

The decision to bench Contreras on Saturday was a precautionary measure as the team followed concussion protocols. The 95 mph impact occurred early in the series, specifically during the third frame of the August 1st weekend set. The Red Sox interim manager provided the update to reporters immediately following the conclusion of Saturday's game, noting that the player's availability hinges on the results of the final medical evaluations scheduled for Sunday morning.

Statistical Impact on the Lineup

Contreras has been a central figure in the Boston offense, contributing significantly to the team's run production with his 67 RBIs. His 23 home runs represent a major portion of the club's power hitting. The Red Sox offense produced nine runs on Friday with him in the starting lineup for three innings, compared to the three runs scored during his full absence on Saturday. The team looks to reintegrate his .288 batting average into the batting order as they conclude the three-game set in Los Angeles. Tracy's optimism regarding the All-Star's status suggests the concussion testing has not yet revealed any setbacks that would require an extended stint on the injured list.