Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora will have another piece to the puzzle back in the dugout before the All-Star break. Cora told reporters Saturday that Masataka Yoshida will be activated during the upcoming homestand.
The Red Sox plan to activate Masataka Yoshida this homestand, the final week before the All-Star break, Alex Cora said. Which day that happens is TBD.
— Tim Healey (@timbhealey) July 5, 2025
The exact day for which Yoshida becomes eligible is unknown at this time. The 31-year-old has been a designated hitter and outfielder during his pro career, which started with the Red Sox in 2023.
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Prior to that, "Macho Man" dominated in Japan, becoming a four-time all-star and two-time Pacific League batting champion. He hit .327 with 133 home runs and 467 RBI during his career with the Orix Buffaloes, helping them win the 2022 Japan Series.
In 2023, Yoshida signed with Boston for five years and $90 million. He has hit .285 with 25 home runs and 128 RBI since but was placed on the injured list to begin this past season after offseason shoulder surgery.
Some reports have Yoshida set to return in the outfield for the revamped Red Sox, while others have him playing first base. Either way, having his bat in the lineup will be a welcome addition after trade Rafael Devers and seeing Alex Bregman hit the injured list himself.
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