Masataka Yoshida Struggles to Meet Expectations in Boston

Red Sox outfielder acknowledges disappointment with his first three seasons in the majors

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Masataka Yoshida, the Boston Red Sox's $90 million outfielder, has struggled to live up to expectations since joining the team in 2023. Yoshida acknowledged that his first three seasons in Boston "weren't what I expected" as he has dealt with injuries and failed to replicate the production that made him a star in Japan. The Red Sox have explored trade options for Yoshida, who is expected to serve as the team's designated hitter this season.

Why it matters

Yoshida's underwhelming performance in Boston has been a disappointment for the team and its fans, who had high hopes for the Japanese star. His struggles have also complicated the Red Sox's outfield situation, with younger and more athletic players like Wilyer Abreu and Ceddanne Rafaela emerging as key contributors.

The details

Across his first three seasons in Boston, Yoshida has hit .282 with a .762 OPS. However, he has battled various injuries, including a torn labrum in his right shoulder that limited him to just 55 games last season. The Red Sox explored trade options for Yoshida last offseason, including discussions with the Mariners, but were unable to find a deal that worked for both sides.

  • Yoshida underwent TMJ surgery in late 2023 for an issue that lingered throughout the year.
  • During the 2024 season, Yoshida missed time from April through June with a left thumb strain.
  • In October 2024, Yoshida had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder, an injury that lingered into 2025.

The players

Masataka Yoshida

A 45-year-old outfielder for the Boston Red Sox who has struggled to live up to the expectations that came with his five-year, $90 million contract.

Wilyer Abreu

An emerging elite defender in right field for the Boston Red Sox, winning two Gold Gloves.

Ceddanne Rafaela

A Gold Glove center fielder for the Boston Red Sox who has helped reshape the team's outfield.

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What they’re saying

“Now I have three years under my belt — to be honest with you guys, these three years weren't what I expected.”

— Masataka Yoshida

The takeaway

Yoshida's struggles in Boston highlight the challenges that some international players face in adjusting to the rigors of Major League Baseball. The Red Sox will need to determine if Yoshida can regain his form or if it's time to move on from the high-priced outfielder.