Red Sox Announce Willson Contreras News After Leaving Rays Game
The Boston Red Sox have shown slight improvement with a 17-22 record this season, but have yet to make a strong push toward contention in the American League. Wilson Contreras has been one of the best first basemen in the league this season.
Previously one of the top offensive catchers in baseball, he has continued that production since moving to first base last year. Originally signed by the Chicago Cubs, he made his MLB debut in 2016.
Now 33, his elite power hitting has taken another step forward in 2026. Through 38 games, Contreras is batting .259 with a .376 on-base percentage, an .842 OPS, eight home runs, and 23 RBIs.
During Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays, with the Red Sox looking to build momentum and Contreras continuing to be a key part of the lineup, he was removed after being hit in the hand by a 94.2 mph sinker in the first inning.
According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com, Contreras has a right-hand contusion and is also undergoing X-rays. The injury is a disappointing development for Boston, as he has been putting together a strong season at the plate.
He has also been hit by pitches more than any other hitter in MLB, with eight HBPs this year to lead the league and 137 over his 11-year career.
Update on Willson Contreras: A right hand contusion, per the Red Sox. They're surely doing X-rays, too.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) May 10, 2026
Even a brief absence from the lineup would be a major blow to a struggling Boston offense, as Contreras has been one of the club's top producers.
The three-time All-Star and 2016 World Series champion with the Chicago Cubs is in the fourth year of a five-year, $87.5 million contract originally signed with the St. Louis Cardinals on Dec. 7, 2022.
If he requires a stint on the injured list, Andruw Monasterio would likely take over, as he did after Contreras exited the game.
Related: Yankees' Aaron Boone Announces Cam Schlittler News Before Brewers Game
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This story was originally published May 10, 2026 at 11:22 AM.