The Boston Red Sox returned to the postseason this year for the first time since 2021, finishing with an 89–73 record. A major factor in their resurgence was the emergence of rookie left-handed slugger Roman Anthony. His impact was undeniable. The Red Sox went 45–46 without him in the lineup and 44–27 in the 71 games he played. As a result, Boston signed Anthony to an eight-year, $130 million contract extension, securing his place in the organization’s long-term plans.

Anthony posted a .292 batting average, a .396 on-base percentage and an .859 OPS, along with eight home runs and 32 RBIs. His breakout campaign was cut short by a left oblique strain that sidelined him for the final month of the regular season and the playoffs. Without him, the Red Sox fell to the New York Yankees in the AL Wild Card round, losing the best-of-three series in three games.

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Despite the early exit, Anthony’s rookie season offered a glimpse of the future in Boston and solidified his role as a foundational piece moving forward.

On Tuesday, Anthony was named as a finalist for the American League Rookie of the Year Award, joining Jacob Wilson and Nick Kurtz of the Athletics. The recognition is especially impressive considering Anthony played just 71 games in his debut season.

The Red Sox celebrated the announcement, congratulating the emerging face of the franchise. “Just the beginning. Roman Anthony has been named a finalist for AL Rookie of the Year!” Boston wrote on X.

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Anthony was selected in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft and quickly rose through Boston’s farm system. Among the club’s promising young core, which includes Marcelo Mayer, Wilyer Abreu and Ceddanne Rafaela, Anthony has emerged as the most impactful talent at the big-league level. His advanced approach at the plate and smooth left-handed swing has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s top young stars.

Anthony’s poise and production at just 21 years old have made him a fan favorite in Boston. He showed maturity beyond his years, often delivering in high-pressure spots and earning the trust of coaches and teammates. With a full offseason to recover and prepare, expectations are high for Anthony to take another leap in his sophomore campaign.

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Related: Red Sox Make Alex Bregman Award Announcement on Thursday

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.