The Boston Red Sox were dealt a serious blow to their hunt for the American League East, and potentially the playoffs, when Roman Anthony left the game on.

Anthony grabbed at his side after striking out and immediately exited the game. He was replaced by Nate Eaton.

After the game, Anthony said the injury felt worse than the back tightness that kept him on the bench briefly earlier this season. He underwent an MRI on Wednesday morning.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora appeared on WEEI and confirmed that Anthony would have to spend time on the injured list.

“He’s going on the IL. He has an oblique strain. Timetable, we don’t know… Usually takes from 4-6 weeks,” Cora said.

The American League Wild Card series begins on September 30, exactly four weeks from the date of the injury. The injury

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