Romy Gonzalez, the Boston Red Sox utility infielder, is unlikely to make his Opening Day appearance due to ongoing shoulder issues that have hindered his progress throughout spring training. Despite undergoing a platelet-rich plasma injection several weeks ago, Gonzalez recently shared with Christopher Smith of MassLive.com that returning in time for the March 26 season opener appears unrealistic. Though he is running and working on agility, Gonzalez is not yet engaging in throwing, fielding, or hitting activities, and does not expect to start batting until at least March 6.
Details on Gonzalez’s Injury and Recovery Progress
The 29-year-old González injured his shoulder near the end of the 2025 regular season and has spent the offseason focusing on rehabilitation. While his recovery seemed promising heading into 2026, increased discomfort emerged last month as he intensified his hitting regimen to prepare for the spring camp. His cautious approach stems from concerns over rushing back too quickly, which could jeopardize both his health and effectiveness on the field.
At this point, I think the ramp-up would be a little too quick and it’d be a disservice I feel like to myself and the team if I’m not ready to roll and have a good build up,
Gonzalez tells Smith.
Significance of Gonzalez to the Red Sox Lineup
Gonzalez’s contribution to Boston’s lineup, especially against left-handed pitchers, has been substantial. In the previous season, he delivered a career-best slash line of .305/.343/.483 and hit nine homers across a career-high 341 plate appearances. His performances against lefties were particularly impressive, producing a .331/.378/.600 slash line with a 162 weighted runs created plus (wRC+) in 143 plate appearances. Although his numbers against right-handed pitchers were modest in comparison (.286/.318/.400), his overall output versus righties remained below average with a .243/.267/.349 line and a 65 wRC+ over 439 plate appearances.
Potential Roster Adjustments if Gonzalez Is Absent
Should Gonzalez remain sidelined when the Red Sox open the season on March 26, it could open the door for players like Nate Eaton, Andruw Monasterio, Kristian Campbell, or Anthony Seigler to earn the final bench spot. Monasterio currently appears as the frontrunner, although much will depend on the players’ spring training performances. This bench position will join those held by backup catcher Connor Wong, veteran utility infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and outfielder/designated hitter Masataka Yoshida.
Gonzalez’s absence may increase competition for spots, which Boston is actively managing amid an outfield surplus. The team has discussed potential trades, with Jarren Duran most frequently mentioned, but so far, asking prices have remained unmet. Boston is also rumored to be looking for trade partners for parts of Yoshida’s contract, though his remaining $36 million over two years presents a significant hurdle.
Outlook on Gonzalez’s Injury and Red Sox Opening Schedule
Although Gonzalez’s delayed return is a setback to Boston’s depth and batting power against left-handed pitching, there is no current indication of a severe setback or a long-term absence. He is entering the first of three arbitration-eligible seasons, earning $1.6 million this year, and remains under club control through the 2028 season.
Boston’s schedule begins with three games in Cincinnati, where the team will likely face two left-handed starters in Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo. They then travel to Houston, where the Astros appear set to start an all-right-handed rotation, followed by hosting the San Diego Padres, who also seem to favor a right-handed rotation. The early matches will therefore test Boston’s lineup adaptability, particularly if Gonzalez misses the start.
