Red Sox's Yoshida seemingly calls out Cora over limited role

Yoshida has only 19 at-bats so far this season due to injury concerns.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:08am

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Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida has expressed frustration with his limited playing time to start the 2026 season, suggesting he should be in the starting lineup more often. Yoshida's comments come amid the Red Sox's struggles and a crowded outfield situation, with the team trying to manage his injury history carefully.

Why it matters

Yoshida's comments could create tension within the Red Sox clubhouse, as the team tries to balance playing time for its various outfielders. The situation highlights the challenges the Red Sox face in managing their roster and keeping key players healthy throughout the season.

The details

Yoshida, a left-handed hitter, has only 19 at-bats so far this season. The Red Sox have been cautious with his playing time due to his injury history over the past few years. However, Yoshida recently stated: 'That's something that I'm not used to. As long as I'm playing, right? My goal is to start in the lineup.' The Red Sox's outfield situation is crowded, with multiple players capable of playing the position, which has made it difficult to give Yoshida consistent playing time.

  • The 2026 MLB season began in April 2026.

The players

Masataka Yoshida

A Boston Red Sox outfielder who has expressed frustration with his limited playing time to start the 2026 season.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

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What they’re saying

“'That's something that I'm not used to. As long as I'm playing, right? My goal is to start in the lineup.'”

— Masataka Yoshida, Red Sox Outfielder

The takeaway

Yoshida's comments highlight the delicate balance the Red Sox must strike in managing their outfield situation and keeping key players healthy, while also addressing any potential clubhouse tensions that may arise from limited playing time.