Roman Anthony — who was originally slated to bat third in Boston’s lineup on Monday as the team’s right fielder — was scratched just before the start of the game. Boston later announced that the promising rookie outfielder was taken out of action due to “mid-back tightness.”

The Red Sox announced why rookie outfielder Roman Anthony was removed from the starting lineup just minutes before opening a series with Kansas City.

Roman Anthony was scratched shortly before Monday's first pitch, but that doesn't mean he'll miss much time, according to Red Sox manager Alex Cora.