BOSTON — Sunday brought another sign of needed progress toward a major return for the Red Sox.
Alex Cora told reporters before the series finale against the New York Yankees that first baseman Triston Casas is set to head out on a rehab assignment this week. Casas will do so starting on Tuesday with Triple-A Worcester.
Casas joins the WooSox as they begin a homestand against the Buffalo Bisons.
The Red Sox first baseman made significant progress in recent weeks that has intrigue rising for his eventual return to the Boston lineup that’s hit well since the All-Star break, despite just a 2-6 record to show for it in that span.
Casas has not played since April 20 in Pittsburgh against the Pirates. In the 22 games he played for the Red Sox this season, the first baseman hit .244 with six home runs and an .857 OPS.
As the Red Sox remain engaged in the playoff race despite a slow start to the second half, Casas’ impact obviously boosts Boston even more in a competitive American League that will battle down the stretch.
From there, Boston may have a few more additions depending on what chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has in store for Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline.
