Red Sox’ Wilyer Abreu Offers Positive Injury Update With Playoffs Looming

The Red Sox are on the verge of their first playoff season in four years, though they’re still waiting on reinforcements before October rolls around.

All eyes will be on Roman Anthony, who last played on Sept. 2 and faces a four-to-six week recovery for an oblique strain. Anthony’s bat changes the complexion of Boston’s postseason chances, though the Red Sox still await the return of another left-handed hitting outfielder.

Wilyer Abreu last played on Aug. 19 and went on the injured list with a calf issue. He’s been swinging the bat during his recovery while running and sprinting progressions have delayed his return.

Abreu spoke to the media at Fenway Park before the series opener Friday with the New York Yankees with an optimistic tone regarding a return before the end of the regular season.

“I’m waiting for the trainers to let me play,” Abreu said. “I’ve been hitting. I’ve been doing everything. The progression of running has been good. Hopefully I’m playing very soon.”

Abreu added that the recovery took longer than he expected, but he emphasized that his priority is feeling 100 percent healthy to help the Red Sox when he returns, which he added could maybe happen next week.

“Hopefully get him up to 90 percent in the effort,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “When we get there, he’ll probably be back with us.”

Abreu plays Gold-Glove defense in right field and his bat certainly improves the depth of the lineup for the Red Sox. He hit .253 through his first 108 games with 22 home runs (second-most on team) and an .811 OPS. That’s an important bat for Boston to get back, especially without Anthony for at least the rest of the regular season.

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