Rookie outfielder Roman Anthony, whose play has played a significant role in pushing the Red Sox into postseason contention, is expected to miss 4-6 weeks with a strained left oblique.
That timetable would take him out of the remainder of the regular season and into the playoffs should the Sox advance.
Anthony was placed on the 10-day injured list on Wednesday. Utility player Nick Sogard was recalled from Triple A Worcester to take his spot on the roster.
“It sounds harsh, but we have to move on,” said manager Alex Cora, who broke the news during his weekly appearance on WEEI.
Anthony was injured talking a swing in the fourth inning of Tuesday’s 11-7 victory against the Guardians. The 21-year-old has hit .292 with an .859 OPS, eight home runs, and 32 RBIs over 71 games since making his major league debut in June.
He was named the American League Rookie of the Month for August on Wednesday.
Anthony acknowledged the injury was significant after the game on Tuesday and was moving slowly.
“I’m hoping for the best and staying positive, but any time I’m not out there, I’m pretty [ticked] off,” said Anthony, who agreed to an eight-year, $130 million extension last month.
Anthony has played primarily right field in recent weeks with Wilyer Abreu on the injured list with a strained right calf.
Abreu is hopeful of starting a running program this week, which would be a significant step in his return. He has hit .252 with an .811 OPS, 22 homers, and 69 RBIs this season.
The Red Sox finish their series against the Guardians on Wednesday night at Fenway Park.
Peter Abraham can be reached at peter.abraham@globe.com. Follow him on Bluesky at peteabeglobe.bsky.social.
