The Boston Red Sox’s spring training has hit an unexpected roadblock due to a lingering illness spreading through the clubhouse. Several players have been affected over the past few weeks, making it uncertain whether the team will return to full strength before Opening Day in 2025. While the Red Sox have remained focused on preparing for the season, the illness has created significant challenges, sidelining key players at various times.
One of the most notable players impacted by the illness is top prospect Roman Anthony. The highly touted outfielder has been absent from exhibition games since March 2, and although his health has been improving, his latest medical update is cause for concern among Red Sox fans.
Just hours before Boston’s 9-8 loss to the Minnesota Twins, Red Sox manager Alex Cora revealed that Anthony had lost 10-12 pounds due to the flu. While the 20-year-old was able to return to practice over the weekend, he isn’t expected to play in a game until at least Tuesday, per The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey. The sudden weight loss and extended absence from the lineup raise questions about how quickly Anthony will be able to regain his strength and get back to top form.
For Red Sox fans, Anthony’s situation is eerily reminiscent of an issue the team faced just last spring. In 2024, infielder Vaughn Grissom battled an illness that caused him to drop approximately 14 pounds. Although he eventually returned to the field, the illness appeared to have lingering effects on his performance throughout the season. With Anthony being such a key part of Boston’s future, fans are hoping that he avoids a similar setback.
Anthony, a second-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, has steadily risen through the Red Sox farm system and enters the 2025 season ranked as MLB.com’s No. 2 prospect. The West Palm Beach, Florida native had an impressive 2024 campaign, showcasing his power and patience at the plate. Across Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester, Anthony belted 18 home runs, drove in 65 RBIs, stole 21 bases, and slashed .291/.396/.498 in 119 games. His continued development has put him on the radar as a potential Opening Day starter for the Red Sox, provided he can fully recover from his illness in time.
As Anthony works his way back to full strength, the Red Sox will continue their spring training schedule, including a Sunday afternoon matchup against the Atlanta Braves. The game is set to air on NESN 360 and Gray TV at 1:05 p.m. ET. In the meantime, fans will keep a close eye on Anthony’s recovery, hoping he can regain his form and be ready to contribute when the regular season begins.
