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Adley Rutschman could make his debut with Red Sox on Monday
Boston Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Adley Rutschman could make his debut with Red Sox on Monday

Newly acquired catcher and three-time All-Star Adley Rutschman could make his debut with the Boston Red Sox in the upcoming Toronto Blue Jays series on Monday. 

The Red Sox acquired Rutschman on the Aug. 3 trade deadline, and he's been rehabbing left wrist inflammation since July 20. Before the injury, the 28-year-old was batting .251 with eight home runs, 47 RBI and a .764 OPS with the Baltimore Orioles

According to The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham, Rutschman's father purchased a plane ticket to Toronto, which is a strong indication that Red Sox fans will get to see Rutschman make his debut in the upcoming Blue Jays series.

But his debut could come as soon as Monday, following Rutschman's strong performance in his first minor league rehab assignment for Triple-A Worcester on Saturday. He played five innings and went 1-for-2 with a two-run double (leaving the bat at 104 mph) with two walks, two runs and also threw out a baserunner attempting to steal.

Adley Rutschman expected to provide immediate impact in debut with Red Sox 

Rutschman will make his second rehab start on Sunday, which will be a great opportunity for him to showcase to the Red Sox that he's ready to join the team. Following his first rehab game, Rutschman claimed that he was "feeling good" and that he was content with the progress he's made. 

Adding Rutschman will enhance the Red Sox's offensive output at the catching position, since they combined for a .615 OPS that ranked 25th in MLB. Rutschman also provides leadership behind the plate and a low strikeout rate of 14.1 percent that ranks in the 87th percentile. He's also highly regarded for his pitch framing (five) that ranks in the 95th percentile.

If Rutschman does in fact make his debut in the Blue Jays series, he owns solid career numbers against them, with a .311 batting average along with 70 hits, 14 home runs and 47 RBI across 57 games. 

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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