Red Sox Avoid Disaster With Star Slugger Willson Contreras

Boston's All-Star first baseman expected to return to lineup on Friday after leaving Tuesday's game with back tightness.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:39pm

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The Boston Red Sox received positive news regarding star first baseman Willson Contreras, who left Tuesday's game against the Minnesota Twins early due to lower back tightness. Manager Alex Cora said Contreras is expected to return to the lineup on Friday after an off day on Thursday, easing concerns that the injury could require an IL stint.

Why it matters

Contreras is a key offensive piece for the Red Sox, providing balance to a lineup heavy on left-handed hitters. With the team already dealing with injuries to first base prospect Triston Casas, losing Contreras for an extended period would have been a major blow to Boston's playoff hopes.

The details

Contreras exited Tuesday's game in the middle innings after experiencing back tightness. The Red Sox held him out of the lineup for Wednesday's series finale against the Twins, but Cora expressed confidence that Contreras would return on Friday when the team hosts the Detroit Tigers.

  • Contreras left Tuesday's game against the Twins early due to lower back tightness.
  • The Red Sox have an off day on Thursday before hosting the Tigers on Friday.

The players

Willson Contreras

The Red Sox's All-Star first baseman who was acquired in the offseason to provide offensive production and stability at a key position.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox who expressed confidence that Contreras would return to the lineup on Friday.

Triston Casas

The Red Sox's top first base prospect who has dealt with injuries in recent seasons, leading the team to acquire Contreras in the offseason.

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What they’re saying

“I think he'll benefit from today and tomorrow (offday) and be ready for Friday.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

“Alex Cora said the Red Sox are confident Willson Contreras won't have to go on the IL with his back tightness.”

— Tim Healey, Boston Globe Reporter

What’s next

The Red Sox will face the Detroit Tigers on Friday, and the team expects Willson Contreras to be in the lineup after an off day on Thursday.

The takeaway

This injury scare for Willson Contreras highlights the importance of the star first baseman to the Red Sox's lineup and playoff hopes. With the team already dealing with injuries at the position, losing Contreras for an extended period would have been a major blow. The fact that he is expected to return on Friday is a relief for Boston and its fans.