Alex Cora Provides Multiple Big Minor League Rehab Updates For Boston Red Sox

Yoshida hasn't played all season as he's been recovering from offseason labrum surgery on his throwing shoulder. He's gone 2-for-9 on his rehab assignment thus far. The Red Sox's next homestand begins July 7 and runs through July 13. They'll play the Colorado Rockies and the Tampa Bay Rays before hitting the All-Star break.

With Rafael Devers now traded, Yoshida has a clear path to fairly regular playing time at the designated hitter position. When Devers was on the roster, how Yoshida would be used was unclear, but that move cleared room for him. The Red Sox had interest in trading Yoshida during the offseason, but given his shoulder injury and his hefty price tag, they were unable to move him. He had three years and $54 million left on his contract heading into this season.

Yoshida hit .280 with 10 homers and 56 RBI in 2024, battling a thumb injury and his defensive limitations en route to just 378 at-bats. He still posted a solid .349 on-base percentage and has elite bat-to-ball skills. When he's able to play, he should be able to contribute to Boston's lineup. If he's able to play defense, he can provide some flexibility as well.

Houck, 29, hasn't pitched since May 12 because of a right elbow injury. He's had a disastrous season at the big-league level, going 0-3 with an 8.04 ERA through nine starts. An All-Star in 2024, he's gone 1-3 with a 7.15 ERA in Triple-A (four games, three starts).

The Red Sox are 44-45 this season and in fourth place in the American League East.

Related Minor League Baseball Stories

GETTING ROWDY: Rowdy Tellez, who hit 11 home runs for the Mariners this season, has signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers. CLICK HERE:

TOUGH INJURY SCARE: Luis Pena, who is one of the top prospects in baseball, is healthy after a scary hit by pitch. CLICK HERE:

HEADED to WBC: Marcelo Mayer, who is one of the top prospects in the sport, is set to play for Mexico in the next World Baseball Classic. CLICK HERE: