The Boston Red Sox are getting a much-needed day off on Monday, and it couldn't come at a better time for star slugger Willson Contreras. After being hit by a pitch in the first inning of Sunday's 4-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, the first baseman was forced to exit the game with a right-hand contusion. But here's the good news: initial scans came back negative, and the team is feeling "cautiously optimistic" about his availability for Tuesday's series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies.

According to MassLive's Chris Cotillo, the Red Sox will re-evaluate Contreras when he arrives at the ballpark on Tuesday. "As I understand it, Red Sox are still cautiously optimistic on Willson Contreras' hand injury... There's at least a chance he plays tomorrow against the Phillies. But it's a read-and-react thing," Cotillo reported. That extra day of rest could be the difference-maker, giving the three-time All-Star time to heal and potentially return to a lineup that desperately needs his bat.

And make no mistake, Boston needs Contreras back in the worst way. The Phillies are red-hot, winners of 10 of their last 13 games, and they'll send ace Zack Wheeler to the mound on Tuesday. Contreras has been one of the Red Sox's most consistent hitters this season, leading the team with eight home runs and 23 RBI while missing just one game all year. His presence in the lineup provides a spark that could help the Sox generate some much-needed offense against a tough Philly pitching staff.

Interim manager Chad Tracy also revealed the team's rotation plans for the series, but all eyes will be on Contreras's status come Tuesday. If he gets the green light, it could be the boost Boston needs to take on one of baseball's hottest teams.