# Willson Returns to Lineup for Wild Card Series

> Willson Contreras returns to Red Sox lineup ahead of Wild Card Series after injury.
- Title: Willson Returns to Lineup for Wild Card Series · Mlb
- Summary: Willson Contreras returns to Red Sox lineup ahead of Wild Card Series after injury. willson contreras, red sox, wild card series · reported by Mlb.
- Keywords: willson contreras, red sox, wild card series, mlb, injured list, al wild card series, sports, Willson, Returns, Lineup, Wild, Card
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/willson-contreras-returns-to-lineup-might-play-in-wild-card-series
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: willson contreras, red sox, wild card series, mlb, injured list, al wild card series, sports
## Willson Contreras returns to lineup
After missing eight games, Willson Contreras returned to the Red Sox’s lineup, batting third and serving as designated hitter in Boston’s 6-2 loss to the Cubs in Sunday’s regular-season finale at Tropicana Field.
## Manager hopeful for postseason play
Red Sox manager Chad Tracy indicated that Contreras, who was hit on the right hand by a pitch on Sept. 17 at Texas, will be active for the American League Wild Card Series, which begins Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium.

> He should be [good to go]
## Contreras' postseason potential
Tracy said Contreras made 'pretty significant' improvement and looked impressive in batting practice Saturday, when the Red Sox conducted an optional workout at the Trop during an off-day.

> That was a huge step
## Team energy boost
Third baseman Caleb Durbin said Contreras’ return provided energy in the Red Sox clubhouse, stating they’re a different team with him and Rafa [Ceddanne Rafaela, who missed 17 games with a right quad strain] back.

> We’re a different team [with them]
## Key players placed on injured list
Catcher/first baseman Mickey Gasper was placed on the 10-day IL with a right biceps strain, while right-handed reliever Tyron Guerrero was placed on the 15-day IL with a right shoulder strain.
## Postseason roster decisions
The Red Sox recalled infielder/outfielder Nate Eaton and right-handed pitcher Wyatt Olds, with manager Chad Tracy debating how to structure Boston’s postseason roster.
## Key takeaway

Willson Contreras returns to Red Sox lineup for Wild Card Series after missing eight games due to hand injury.