Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman prepares for major-league debut after rehab stint
Catcher Adley Rutschman said he is eager to join the Boston Red Sox after a brief Triple-A rehab assignment, while interim manager Chad Tracy outlined the team’s catching depth and lineup adjustments.
Boston’s new catcher Adley Rutschman expressed enthusiasm about returning to the field ahead of the Red Sox’s opening series against the Toronto Blue Jays. He said the chance to play again after time on the injured list feels like a “blessing” and highlighted his efforts to familiarize himself with the pitching staff through meetings and a two-game rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Worcester.
Rutschman noted that the rehab stint allowed him to catch live pitching, test his wrist and assess his workload, saying he is focused on “getting the body right” before taking on regular duties behind the plate.
Interim manager Chad Tracy cautioned that Rutschman’s limited game action – only five innings in one Triple-A game – means he may need a gradual transition rather than immediate daily starts. Tracy also mentioned that carrying three catchers could be challenging, with current backups Connor Wong and Jake Rogers likely seeing reduced playing time.
Tracy added that the roster is returning to full strength, noting the return of shortstop Nick Sogard and outfielder Masataka Yoshida, and highlighted Wilyer Abreu’s recent American League Player of the Week award after a .438 batting performance.
"I’m just excited to be a part of it," Rutschman said, emphasizing his desire to contribute to the team’s momentum.
"It would be a challenge to carry three catchers," Tracy said, referring to the depth chart adjustments.