Masataka Yoshida's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

Boston Red Sox designated hitter Masataka Yoshida (shoulder) could play some outfield if he remains with the team in 2025, according to manager Alex Cora. However, the left-handed hitter is a potential trade candidate this offseason as the BoSox look for more right-handed bats for their lineup, so there's no guarantee Yoshida will even be in Boston by Opening Day. But the Red Sox could have trouble finding a team willing to take Yoshida, who is due $55.8 million over the next three years and is coming off surgery to fix a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder in October. He was limited to designated-hitter duties in 2024 but made 84 starts in left field as a rookie in 2023. Yoshida never went on the injured list in 2024, but his lingering shoulder issue limited him to just one inning in left field. He's been mediocre for fantasy managers in his first two years with a .280 average, 25 homers and a .775 OPS in 248 games.

Boston Red Sox outfielder/designated hitter Masataka Yoshida (shoulder) is "making a ton of progress" this offseason and should be swinging a bat in spring training, according to chief baseball officer Craig Breslow. Yoshida required surgery to fix a labral tear in his right shoulder in October, but barring a setback in his rehab, the 31-year-old Japanese outfielder should be ready for the start of the 2025 regular season. He's been mostly a disappointment for the Red Sox and still carries $55.8 million left on his deal, which has prompted Boston to discuss him in trade talks this offseason. Yoshida was basically a full-time DH in 2024 -- he played just one game in the outfield. For fantasy purposes, Yoshida has nice contact skills -- he slashed .280/.349/.415 -- but he'll limit you defensively and doesn't hit for much power (just 10 homers).

According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Boston Red Sox attempted to move designated hitter Masataka Yoshida in a deal that would have brought right-handed pitcher Luis Castillo to Boston. Feinsand reported that the Mariners were looking to acquire first baseman Triston Casas in exchange for Castillo, but rejected the deal as the Red Sox attempted to put Yoshida in the package as well. The 31-year-old carries a hefty contract worth $55.8 million but Seattle was unwilling to take on the payroll. Feinsand noted that once this deal fell through, Boston pivoted to Walker Buehler. Yoshida has been deployed as a pure DH given his defensive struggles and held a .280/.349/.415 line with ten home runs and two stolen bases last summer. If Yoshida remains on the Red Sox, fantasy managers should expect him to see most starts at the DH spot.