Rays gain an unfortunate edge with loss of Red Sox first baseman to injury

After a promising beginning to his MLB career, the 25-year old Triston Casas was off to a slow start in 2025. He was slashing .182/.277/.303 with only six extra-base hits to his name. Now, he's going to miss the entirety of the 2025 season with a brutal knee injury that will require surgery. We're sure he'll bounce back when he recovers from this ailment, but how will the Red Sox fair in his absence?

The Miami-born infielder is considered to be the first baseman of the future for the Red Sox, but this injury and his recent struggles may put a hitch in their plans. Nonetheless, Casas has been a solid contributor for this resurgent AL club.

His best season was his rookie campaign in 2023 when the left-handed slugger hit .263 with 24 home runs and 65 RBIs. The 6'4 hitter also represented Boston well by finishing third in AL Rookie of the Year votes, behind only Tanner Bibee and the unanimous winner Gunnar Henderson.

It's hard to know how the former top prospect will return from this significant setback, but the Red Sox will certainly miss his offensive potential. There are a few in-house options for the Boston club to consider as replacements before looking into trades or free agency.

Abraham Toro has been selected to take Casa's place for the time being. The Canadian native is known for his versatility as a dependable utility player for the last seven seasons. As a member of the Astros and Mariners, Toro primarily played second and third base. He's only made 15 appearances at the underrated first base position since 2019. Nonetheless, the 28-year old can fill in at the role just fine, unless the Red Sox front office has other plans.

The offensive side of the game at that position will look much different. Abraham Toro is a career .220 hitter and he's only managed eight home runs since the 2023 season. The former 5th round pick has declined as of late with his best years behind him when he wore an Astros' uniform.

Therefore, this is an advantageous situation for the Rays and the rest of the AL East. The Red Sox are currently 2.5 games back of the first place Yankees and only a game ahead of the Rays and Blue Jays, so this roster shift could be a game-changer.