Red Sox Star Triston Casas Suffers Rib Fracture, Out Indefinitely

Boston Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas has suffered a left rib fracture and will be out for an undetermined period, the team announced on Monday. Casas exited Saturday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates after feeling pain in his left rib cage while swinging. An MRI revealed the fracture, and there is currently no timetable for his return.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora said Casas had been dealing with the rib issue "for a while" and it became exacerbated during the at-bat on Saturday. "He's going to be out for a while," Cora stated. "It's one of those that we've just got to let it heal. It's not soft tissue or a muscle, so we've just got to be patient."

The 24-year-old Casas has been a key contributor for the Red Sox this season, starting 21 of the team's first 22 games. He has posted a.244/.344/.513 slash line with six home runs and 10 RBIs. Cora described Casas as a "force" offensively and acknowledged the significant impact of his absence in the lineup.

Why this matters: Casas' injury is a major blow to the Red Sox, who have been relying on the young slugger's production in the middle of their order. His extended absence will test the team's depth and resilience as they navigate a competitive AL East division.

With Casas sidelined, the Red Sox plan to use Bobby Dalbec as their primary first baseman for the time being. Dalbec, who has struggled at the MLB level this season with a.033 batting average and 18 strikeouts, will get an opportunity to prove himself. The team is also exploring external options to help fill the void, with veteran first baseman Garrett Cooper, recently designated for assignment by the Chicago Cubs, as a potential target.

The Red Sox have been hit hard by injuries this season, with Casas joining a list that includes pitchers Lucas Giolito, Nick Pivetta, and Garrett Whitlock, as well as shortstop Trevor Story. Despite the setbacks, the team has managed a 13-10 record. Cora expressed confidence in the team's ability to weather the storm, stating, "We've been going through this the whole time. It's not easy, but we'll find a way."

Key Takeaways

• Triston Casas suffers left rib fracture, out for undetermined period.
• Casas has been a key contributor for Red Sox this season.
• Bobby Dalbec to be primary 1B with Casas sidelined, external options explored.
• Red Sox dealing with multiple injuries, including Casas, but maintain 13-10 record.
• Manager Cora confident team can weather the storm despite Casas' absence.