Red Sox surprise fans by benching Wilyer Abreu against a right-handed pitcher

Boston Red Sox fans were left wondering on Monday, June 10, 2025, when one regular name was missing from the team’s starting lineup. The team faced the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, and something about the lineup choice caught attention.

While the game carried its usual importance, the decision about one player became the big talking point.

Wilyer Abreu sits out as Boston faces Rays’ right-hander Shane Baz

The Boston Red Sox outfielder, Wilyer Abreu, missed Monday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays starting lineup. Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, was the setting for the game. This choice was unexpected since Rays beginning Shane Baz is a right-handed pitcher. Commonly, Wilyer Abreu has mostly been left out of games when the other team employs left-handed pitchers.

Still, this was only the second instance in the 2025 MLB season he was omitted from the lineup against a right-handed.

His absence followed his missed two games over the weekend, both of which were against left-handed pitchers. That seemed expected. But Monday’s move raised questions because Abreu usually plays when the opposing pitcher throws with his right hand.In his place, Ceddanne Rafaela made his first career start in right field.

Rafaela is known for his defensive skills and has mostly played center field or shortstop before. This new position marks a notable moment for the young player.Also Read: How Boston Red Sox Outslugged New York Yankees Despite Aaron Judge’s Heroics

Ceddanne Rafaela makes debut in right field while fans wonder about Wilyer Abreu

Ceddanne Rafaela stepped into right field for the Red Sox for the first time in his career on June 10, 2025. The 23-year-old has been gaining more chances this season and took on the new role with confidence. The team has not officially said why Abreu was benched, but some think it could be a move to test lineup changes.Fans took to social media during the game to ask why Abreu was not on the field. As of now, the Red Sox coaching staff hasn’t made any public statement explaining Abreu’s absence in detail. Manager Alex Cora had previously said in interviews that they are always testing different matchups to improve results.For now, all eyes are on whether Wilyer Abreu returns to the lineup in the team’s next game.