Boston finally has a reason to smile.

After spending nearly three weeks on the injured list with a right quadriceps strain, star infielder Alex Bregman has given the Boston Red Sox and their fans something they’ve been desperately waiting for: hope. And not just hope, but very real progress toward a return that could shake up the second half of the season.

According to team insiders and confirmed by manager Alex Cora, Bregman is recovering faster than expected, showing significant improvement in mobility and strength. He has already resumed light running drills, batting cage sessions, and even fielding work at Fenway — all promising signs that he may rejoin the team sooner than initially projected.

“He’s trending in the right direction,” said Cora. “He’s pushing, he wants to be back out there. And believe me, we want him back out there too.”

Bregman’s absence has been deeply felt on both sides of the ball. His sharp defense at third base and veteran poise at the plate were pivotal during Boston’s early-season momentum. Since his injury, the Red Sox have struggled to maintain consistency in the infield, and their offense has lacked the spark that Bregman often provides, especially in high-leverage situations.

The injury occurred during a baserunning play late last month, when Bregman pulled up grabbing his right thigh after rounding second base. Initial scans confirmed a moderate strain, and the team opted to be cautious with his recovery — a decision that now appears to be paying off.

While no official return date has been set, sources suggest that Bregman could begin a short rehab assignment by the end of the week, and may return to Boston’s lineup within the next 7 to 10 days if he continues progressing without setbacks.

Bregman himself also chimed in with a short but uplifting message to fans on social media:
“Getting close. Can’t wait to be back at Fenway with the boys.”

With the AL East race tightening and every game beginning to carry more weight, Bregman’s imminent return could serve as a major boost — emotionally and competitively — for a Red Sox team eager to reestablish its rhythm.

This is a developing story.