Roman Anthony exited Game 1 of the AL wild-card series against the New York Yankees after experiencing discomfort in his right hand—the same digit that required surgery and sidelined him for nearly four months earlier this season. Boston manager Chad Tracy described Anthony as being in significant discomfort, noting that multiple check swings against Yankees ace Cam Schlittler caused the hand to flare up. Anthony was pinch-hit for in the sixth inning and left Yankee Stadium without addressing reporters.

The Red Sox fell 9-0 in Game 1, with Cam Schlittler tossing 6⅓ scoreless innings, striking out 10 and allowing just two hits. Anthony, who returned in late August to hit .262/.321/.476 with four homers and 10 RBIs in 25 games, was batting leadoff as Boston's designated hitter.

If Anthony is removed from the roster, he would not be eligible to return until the American League Championship Series. The potential loss is particularly damaging as the Red Sox averaged a major league-low 71 runs in September and were counting on Anthony to help fill a season-long power void.