Before Monday’s series opener against the Houston Astros, the Red Sox announced via manager Alex Cora that Mayer was scheduled to play catch, signaling his return to baseball activities. “Marcelo Mayer (sprained right wrist) was due to play catch today, Alex Cora said. So there is some baseball activity,” wrote Tim Healey of the Boston Globe.

HOUSTON — Injured Red Sox rookie Marcelo Mayer began baseball activities Monday, playing catch back in Boston. That’s progress after Mayer had done nothing but work out since the Red Sox placed him on the 10-day injured list July 25 with a sprained wrist.

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora praised Ceddanne Rafaela's efforts as he's taken with a team-first mindset to play where he is needed.