Boston Red Sox designated hitter J.D. Martinez Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Red Sox slugger J.D. Martinez on roster for ALDS vs. Rays

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 10/7/21

The Boston Red Sox had to punch their ticket to an American League Division Series showdown with the Tampa Bay Rays without the services of slugger J.D. Martinez, who missed Tuesday's wild-card win over the New York Yankees at Fenway Park because of an ankle injury.

Martinez will be available moving forward.

According to the Associated Press (h/t ESPN), the Red Sox included Martinez on their roster for the ALDS, an indication that he should be good to go for the series that opens on Thursday night in Florida.

Men on a mission. pic.twitter.com/50efe0RrQN
— Red Sox (@RedSox) October 7, 2021

Martinez suffered somewhat of a freak sprained left ankle in this past Sunday's regular-season finale at the Washington Nationals when he tripped on second base while running out to patrol right field. He was playing in the outfield because Boston was the road team and National League clubs don't use the designated hitter for home games.

The AP added Boston used Martinez as a DH for 113 contests during the campaign.

Depending on his health and what else occurs throughout October, Martinez may not be asked to play the field again until the World Series. The 34-year-old slashed .286/.349/.518 during the regular season with 28 home runs and 99 RBI. Per ESPN stats, he finished tied for the league lead with 42 doubles.

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