The 21‑year‑old Red Sox leadoff hitter, who shone in the World Baseball Classic, is now hitless in his last 14 at‑bats and has struck out nine times in that span. In Tuesday’s 5‑2 loss to the Astros, Anthony went 0‑4 with four strikeouts, the third four‑strikeout game of his career.
Despite a promising rookie campaign and high expectations for an MVP‑caliber season, Anthony’s sophomore year has begun sluggishly. The Red Sox lineup is in a funk, and analysts say the league may have adjusted to his style, but his talent remains and he may rebound later.