Brendan Rodgers, a former Gold Glove winner and recent Boston Red Sox signing, has suffered a setback with a shoulder injury during spring training. Manager Alex Cora provided an update, revealing that Rodgers' MRI and CT scan results were not encouraging. Cora indicated that Rodgers will seek a second opinion and is likely to undergo surgery, though the specific procedure remains unknown.
This news comes as a disappointment for the Red Sox, who had high hopes for Rodgers' contribution to the team. Rodgers, 29, has a history of shoulder injuries, having endured multiple significant injuries to both shoulders throughout his career. As a result, he will likely begin the season on the injured list, missing out on the initial games.
Rodgers' journey with the Red Sox began when he signed a minor-league contract in early February and was invited to the team's camp to compete for a roster spot. Prior to joining the Red Sox, Rodgers spent six seasons with the Colorado Rockies, where he won a Gold Glove award in 2022. That season, he set career highs in various categories, including home runs (13), wins above replacement (WAR) (4.3), runs scored (72), hits (140), doubles (30), RBIs (63), walks (46), and total bases (215).
However, Rodgers' time with the Houston Astros in 2025 was less successful. He played in only 43 games, hitting two home runs, driving in 11 runs, and posting a .191/.266/.278 slash line across 128 plate appearances. The Red Sox are now left with a decision regarding their fifth starter, as they navigate the challenges of managing injuries and performance within their roster.