Boston Red Sox

Some Red Sox players test positive for COVID-19, manager confirms

BOSTON — In a news conference on Friday, Red Sox manager Ron Roenicke said that some players have tested positive for coronavirus.

“We do have some positive tests,” Roenicke said. But because of COVID and MLB laws, they will not be releasing the names of those players, he added.

Roenicke did, however, talk about Eduardo Rodríguez, a starting pitcher for the Sox.

“Eduardo didn’t come in today and the reason being is he was at home and was around somebody that was sick. He wanted to just make sure that he was fine. So we have tested him, we don’t have the results back yet.”

The positive tests were announced on the same day that Sox players began working out at Fenway Park. They started their second-round of spring training, which was halted in March because of the virus.

On Thursday, weights and other equipment were set up in the concourse at Fenway to allow players to work out with more social distancing than would be possible in the usual cramped facilities.

Players reported to Fenway on Wednesday to undergo coronavirus testing.

The shortened 60-game season is set to start July 23 or 24. Speaking about whether or not any Sox players will sit out, Roenicke said, “Everybody in our club is planning on participating this year.”

“If they’re not here it’s because of testing or they’re not feeling well.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.