Red Sox prospects when they're asked to swing a bat

New York Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy suffered a painful injury during Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 8 after taking a hard hit from linebacker Zack Baun on a designed quarterback run. McCarthy went to the medical tent and later tried throwing on the sideline, but visibly doubled over in pain and dropped to his knees. He was initially listed as questionable to return with a hip injury, and the Giants had to turn to backup Jameis Winston. The injury is also a reminder of how even one awkward hit or movement can affect an athlete's ability to perform a basic part of their sport. For baseball players, especially hitters, swinging a bat puts significant stress on the hands, wrists, shoulders, core, and obliques. Red Sox fans have seen that firsthand with Roman Anthony, whose partially torn ligament near the base of his right ring finger made it difficult to swing consistently. He also dealt with a season-ending oblique injury in 2025. While McCarthy's injury is different, the comparison shows how pain in an area used during a throwing motion or swing can make it difficult to return to full strength, even when an athlete can still perform other activities.