**Wilyer Abreu’s Spring Training Derailed by Illness**
Boston Red Sox outfielder **Wilyer Abreu** couldn’t have envisioned a rougher start to his spring training. After a standout rookie season that saw him win a Gold Glove and finish sixth in American League Rookie of the Year voting, Abreu was sidelined almost immediately upon arriving at camp due to a viral gastrointestinal illness.
The Red Sox have shut down Abreu from baseball activities, and as of Tuesday, manager **Alex Cora** confirmed that the 25-year-old remains limited. *“He can work out. He cannot do baseball activities yet,”* Cora told reporters, per *MassLive’s* Christopher Smith.
Abreu, who lost weight due to the illness, underwent additional lab work on Monday, with results expected soon. *“We’re still waiting,”* Cora said, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach.
Abreu was projected to be an Opening Day starter in the outfield alongside **Ceddanne Rafaela** and **Jarren Duran**, but his health situation has cast some uncertainty over that plan. Fortunately, there’s still a month until the regular season begins, giving Abreu time to recover.
Acquired by the Red Sox at the 2022 trade deadline in the **Christian Vázquez** deal, Abreu made a strong impression in his first full MLB season last year. He batted .253 with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and eight stolen bases while leading all AL outfielders with nine assists.
While Abreu is the only Red Sox position player completely sidelined, **Masataka Yoshida** is working his way back from shoulder surgery, and **Rafael Devers** is progressing well after shoulder issues plagued him last season. The Red Sox are hopeful Abreu can return to full strength soon and pick up where he left off in 2024.
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