Willson Contreras sidelined by hand injury during Red Sox game

Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras was forced to leave a game against the Texas Rangers after being hit in the right hand by a pitch in the eighth inning. Contreras reported feeling numbness and significant pain, noting that the sensation felt similar to previous fractures he has sustained in the same hand.

Medical evaluations, including X-rays, have returned negative results, ruling out any bone fractures. However, the player is suffering from a severe contusion and inflammation. Due to the injury, the Red Sox have opted not to rush his return and he was excluded from the starting lineup for the upcoming series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

In his absence, the Red Sox have restructured their lineup, with Nick Sogard taking over at first base and Jahmai Jones moving to the designated hitter position. The injury comes at a critical time as the Red Sox are on the verge of clinching a postseason berth.