The Boston Red Sox were eliminated by the New York Yankees in the AL Wild Card round. Despite the early postseason exit, Boston is trending in the right direction as an organization. This year marked the club’s first postseason appearance since 2021, ending a three-year drought.

It also marked the emergence and continued development of young talent, none more impactful than outfielder Roman Anthony. The 21-year-old left-handed slugger debuted in early June and produced immediately, operating as one of the best hitters in the lineup.

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Anthony posted a .292 batting average, .396 on-base percentage, .859 OPS, eight home runs and 32 RBIs over 71 games. His season was unfortunately cut short on Sept. 3 with a left oblique strain that sidelined him for the remainder of the year, including the MLB playoffs.

Regardless, Anthony’s performance had already earned him a major contract extension that could become a significant value deal for the Red Sox if his development continues. He signed an eight-year, $130 million extension in August to keep him in Boston long-term.

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On Monday night, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) announced the recipient of the American League Rookie of the Year on MLB Network. As expected, Nick Kurtz of the Athletics won the award unanimously. Anthony finished in third place, which was not surprising given the time he missed, though he did receive second-place votes and had a chance to surpass Jacob Wilson of the Athletics.

Because he finished third, Anthony lost out on at least $3 million in bonuses tied to his contract. According to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe, “Roman Anthony finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting, behind the Athletics’ Nick Kurtz and Jacob Wilson. Had he been second, Anthony would have unlocked at least $3 million of bonuses for 2031–33, per the terms of this contract,” Healey wrote on X.

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Anthony was selected in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft, and his rapid rise has only reinforced Boston’s belief in his long-term value. His left oblique strain is not expected to linger into 2026, and he is on track to be fully healthy for spring training.

With Anthony locked in, the Red Sox are focused on adding another frontline starter to pair with Garrett Crochet, with Brayan Bello likely slotting in behind them. The club is also expected to pursue an impact middle-of-the-order bat, especially with Alex Bregman hitting free agency. Boston’s offseason outlook centers on building around its young core while pushing for a deeper playoff run.

Related: Red Sox Make Alex Bregman Award Announcement on Thursday

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 11, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.