Red Sox Could Receive Two Major Returns For Finale Vs. Royals

Two very important members of the Red Sox could rejoin Boston on Wednesday when the club tries to complete a sweep in Kansas City.

Chris Martin “likely will be reinstated from the injured list” ahead of the Red Sox-Royals series finale at Kauffman Stadium, per The Boston Globe. Martin could make his return alongside Tyler O’Neill, who “likely will be available” for the final game of Boston’s six-game road trip.

The veteran right-hander has not pitched since July 3 due to an elbow injury. Martin went down at a particularly inopportune time for the Red Sox, but his injury seemingly made Craig Breslow and company more aggressive ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Martin will try to pick up where he left off, as he logged a scoreless outing in 14 of his last 15 appearances.

O’Neill hasn’t played since last Friday due to an illness. The slugging outfielder initially was expected to return to the lineup Monday evening, but he ended up sitting out both of the Red Sox’s wins over the Royals. O’Neill was spotted in the dugout Tuesday night, though, which seemingly was a sign that his health was improving.

Boston will leapfrog Kansas City in the American League wild-card standings if it rips off another win Wednesday. NESN’s complete coverage of the finale begins at 6 p.m. ET.