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.

Red Sox rookie Roman Anthony was scratched from Monday’s lineup just prior to first pitch. The club announced shortly afterwards that Anthony is dealing with mid back tightness.