Red Sox Experience Scary Moment in Spring Training

On Friday, the Red Sox faced a tense situation early in their spring training game against the Braves.

During the first inning, Atlanta’s Jurickson Profar lifted a routine fly ball to left-center field, but things took an alarming turn. Boston’s two emerging players, left fielder Roman Anthony and center fielder Sedan Rafaela, both moved in on the ball, yet their communication seemed quite off.

When Anthony caught the ball, it allowed Ronald Acuña Jr. to bring in Atlanta’s first run, but simultaneously, he collided with Rafaela in a moment that looked rather dangerous, sending both players crashing to the ground.

For a moment, Anthony lay face down on the grass as trainers and coaches rushed to their aid, while Rafaela appeared shaken, crouching beside him.

After about a minute, Rafaela managed to get back up.

Shortly after, Anthony stood up too, with a Red Sox trainer appearing to assess his left arm.

Both athletes continued in the game, and their subsequent at-bats indicated they were alright. Anthony got a single to center field in his next opportunity.

Then, just a few pitches later, Rafaela launched a stunning 400-foot home run to the same area of the field.

The Red Sox could certainly breathe easier after that, particularly as they anticipate relying heavily on Anthony, who is 21, and Rafaela, age 25, in 2026 and beyond.

Anthony made a name for himself last season and was hailed as a top prospect after hitting .292/.396/.463 over 303 at-bats, ultimately finishing third in the American League Rookie of the Year race.

In his second full season in 2025, Rafaela also excelled, hitting 16 home runs, stealing 20 bases, and earning a Gold Glove Award as a center fielder.