Sox Treat Me to Behind the Scenes Day at Fenway

July 18, 2019July 18, 2019 Andrew Roberts MLB, Red Sox, Special Occasions Abby Murphy, Alex Cora, Andrew Benintendi, Andrew Cashner, Benny, Bogey, Boston, Boston Red Sox, Brian Johnson, Brock Holt, C-Vazzy, Chris Cotillo, Chris Sale, Christian Vazquez, Dave Dombrowski, Felicia Rutigliano, Fenway, fenway Park, Fred Lynn, J.D. Martinez, Jackie Bradley, Jackie Bradley Jr., Jacob Waguespack, Jahmai Webster, JBJ, Kyle Montemagno, Michael Chavis, Mitch Moreland, MLB, Mookie Betts, Nathan Eovaldi, Rafael Devers, Red Sox, Sam Kennedy, Tom Caron, Tuesday, X-Man, Xander Bogaerts

On Tuesday July 16th, the Red Sox invited me to job shadow the Red Sox public relations (PR) team before the game for a behind the scenes Fenway experience. I was able to interact with several members of the PR staff for the Red Sox. The PR staff is in charge of connecting the media to their sources: players, coaches, general managers, and more. As an aspiring professional sports reporter, shadowing the PR staff gave me an interesting point of view. The PR team is involved with nearly everything around the ballpark.

When I arrived at Fenway, I ran into NESN sideline reporter Jahmai Webster:

Abby Murphy, a member of the PR staff who was key to making my visit possible, met me and my dad at Gate D. Abby introduced me to Kevin Doyle, who passes out game notes across the park. Kevin gives them to the media for their broadcasts and articles. He also delivers them to the coaches and players for game preparation. He even is responsible for delivering them to the suites of team owners and President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski.

Today he brought me along as he passed these out. First, we went to the NESN studio outside Fenway, where I met Tom Caron of NESN. He had walked up to the Fenway gates to save Kevin a trip.

After that, we visited the Red Sox and Blue Jays clubhouses. Kevin dropped off a few in the locker room and quickly stopped by the managers’ offices to drop one off. I learned later that the quick drop off is intentional as the PR staff tries to avoid disrupting clubhouse activity. They also allow players privacy by avoiding photo and video during certain hours. It was cool to stop by there though, as I had never even seen the clubhouse doors before.

Next stop after a quick elevator ride was Fenway’s baseball operations offices. Dave Dombrowski’s suite was next to these offices, closest to the field. Dombrowski was busy but Kevin dropped the game notes off at his door in case he needed them later. Kevin and I also went inside Sam Kennedy’s suite to drop off game notes for the team owners. Kennedy wasn’t there but the door was open and a member of the Red Sox staff was preparing food already for Kennedy and his guests.

Kevin and I also stopped by the legends suite where one former Red Sox player is hosted every night. For this game, it was two time AL pennant winner and former outfielder Fred Lynn that would be hosted.

The last stop was the press box where game notes were printed and lineups had just been released. This was only the beginning of my experience though. After spending some time with Kevin, I headed downstairs and joined Kyle Montemagno for Alex Cora’s pregame press conference.

Cora discussed Cashner’s debut, Chris Sale’s struggles, and the status of injured players Nathan Eovaldi, Mitch Moreland, and Brian Johnson among other things. To see the press conference live and sit with all the members of the press was surreal. Until today, I watched the coverage on NESN but this made me feel like an official press member.

Once the Cora press conference was over Kyle took me out on the field to watch batting practice. Though a lot of media members showed up for the press conference, many went back up to the press box to write pregame articles based on Cora’s comments as opposed to going outside for batting practice. That allowed me to have a great view near home plate to watch the Sox players.

I spent a little bit of time at the credential pick-up booth during peak pick-up time. Credentials reserved passes for the game for media members as well as friends of players and staff. The Blue Jays had just announced that Jacob Waguespack would be called up to start, so at the last minute, several members of the Waguespack family hurried over to the game. Many people who didn’t have reserved passes came to the credential booth thinking they could pick up tickets there. They told me this happens many times throughout the day.

Towards the end of my afternoon, I joined Kyle to take a closer look at the game notes, which he helped create, and then we stopped by the press box to join the rest of the Red Sox media.

Check out this short video from outside the press box where I had the opportunity to do a live Fenway “stand-up” to recap my experience:

After this incredible afternoon, the Red Sox made sure I was able to enjoy the game with my entire family, including my cousins and grandparents who had just flown up from Florida on game day.

I’d like to thank Abby Murphy, Chris Cotillo, Kevin Doyle, Felicia Rutigliano, Kevin Hausmann, Kyle Montemagno, and the rest of the Red Sox public relations staff for helping set up this unbelievable experience for me, one I will never forget!

Baseball Bits #9: Why Mookie Betts Should Still Lead Off

June 20, 2018 Andrew Roberts Baseball Bits, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized Andrew Benintendi, Baseball Bits, Benny, Boston, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Christian Vazquez, Dustin Pedroia, Eduardo Nunez, Hanley Ramirez, J.D. Martinez, Jackie Bradley Jr., JBJ, Mitch Moreland, MLB, MLB Trade Deadline, Mookie Betts, Rafael Devers, Red Sox, Sandy Leon, Sox, X-Man, Xander Bogaerts

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Although he has missed significant time due to injuries, Mookie Betts has had a phenomenal season. As of June 18th, he is batting .340/.419/.699 with 18 HR, 38 RBI, and 13 stolen bases. As his stats show, he is a speedy, consistent leadoff hitter who hits home runs. With stats like his, many have argued that he belongs in the middle of the line-up as he has nearly made the 30-30 club in each of the last two years.

Despite their speed, most 30-30 hitters of the past did not lead off. Instead, they have been middle of the line-up threats. Alex Cora has said time and time again that Betts is his leadoff hitter and I think there is evidence to support the Sox rookie manager’s decision and it goes beyond the Sox best start in years.

Betts has hit 3 leadoff homers just this year (13 in his career). He also bats in consecutive innings or twice in an inning very often. And the more at-bats he gets, the more chances to help the Sox potent offense get going whether it is the start of the game or in later innings. Read below for some more compelling stats that support the decision to keep Betts leading off.

The Research (Note: Data as of June 18th)

Baseball Bits #9_ Mookie Betts Back-2-Back Innings – 2018 At-Bats in Back-To-Back InningsSame Inning (1)

The “Baseball Bits”

In the 54 games Betts has played this season, he has batted in consecutive innings (including one time he batted twice in one inning) 36 times over 29 games
- The Red Sox are 22-7 in these games (.759 winning percentage)
- To compare, the Sox current overall record is 49-24 (.671)
- When Betts plays and does not do it, the Red Sox are 15-10 (.600)
- The Sox are 4-3 when Betts does it twice in one game (.571)
- They are 1-0 when Betts bats twice in an inning (1.000)
- The Sox are 3-1 (.750) when Betts comes up to bat in three innings in a row
12 of these 36 (33%) of Betts’ consecutive inning at-bats have started in the 1st inning
Betts is batting .468/.533/.887 with a 1.420 OPS for all of the consecutive inning/same inning at bats
- He has hit 8 HR and drove in 18 runs in these at bats
- 44% of his home runs this season and 47% of his RBIs this season have been when he has batted in consecutive innings or twice in an inning

The Verdict

As much as the Red Sox would benefit from having Betts batting before J.D. Martinez, creating a 1-2 punch, I think the data shows it’s been plenty beneficial to keep Betts in the leadoff spot. Even with the bases empty at the start of the game or after our weak end of the lineup struggles, Betts manages to come through. He has hit 13 career leadoff home runs and would not bat in consecutive innings this often if he wasn’t leading off. 33% of his consecutive inning at-bats have started in the 1st inning.

The only major downside of keeping him in the leadoff spot is that with the 7th, 8th, and 9th batters struggling, he has fewer RBI opportunities. If the Sox find a way to get another bat or the bottom of the order heats up, that will change. Another option is if Dustin Pedroia can return to his old self, it will help make 1 through 9 stronger like the Yankees potent offense. Either way, it’s hard to argue with the success the Sox line-up has had with Mookie at the top.

The Sox have plenty of speed in their line-up and super utility man Brock Holt 9th could bat 9^th to give them a second lead-off. Holt has been doing well this season, while the more frequent bottom of the order consisting of Jackie Bradley Jr. (another good 9 option when hitting better), Sandy Leon, and Christian Vazquez have struggled to the point where none of them are batting .250 or higher. Trying Holt or Pedroia in the nine-hole could potentially get Betts some runners in scoring position when he comes up, which should make him perform even better. Betts is batting .353 with runners in scoring position this year, but only 34 of his 209 at-bats (16.3%) have been with runners in scoring position. That just shows how desperately Betts needs some end of the lineup support and how Betts’ home runs have helped his RBI total of 38. The Red Sox have a top-heavy lineup.

They have not shown signs that they are already missing Hanley Ramirez but will they need to add another hitter in order to contend in the playoffs? If the Sox 7-8-9 hitters keep struggling as we get closer to the July 31^st trading deadline, it will be something the Sox will have to consider. I hope they heat up but if not, expect to see a post from me on potential additions either by trade or internal or both.

Red Sox Report: Sox Slowing Down, But It’s Understandable

May 6, 2018May 6, 2018 Andrew Roberts Red Sox, Red Sox Report, Uncategorized 'Stros, A's, Aaron Hicks, Anaheim, Angels, Astros, Athletics, Austin Maddox, Baseball Bits, Blue Jays, Bobby Poyner, Boston, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, C.C. Sabathia, Chris Sale, Christian Vazquez, Cleveland, Cleveland Indians, Dustin Pedroia, Eduardo Nunez, Eduardo Rodriguez, fenway Park, Giancarlo Stanton, Gleyber Torres, Hanley Ramirez, Houston, Houston Astros, Indians, J.D. Martinez, Jackie Bradley Jr., Jays, Joe Kelly, Johnny Mize, Jordan Montgomery, Kansas City, Kansas City Royals, KC Royals, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Manny Machado, Marathon Monday, Marco Hernandez, Minnesota, Minnesota Twins, MLB, Mookie Betts, New York, New York Yankees, Oakland, Oakland Athletics, Paw Sox, Pawtucket, Pawtucket Red Sox, Rangers, Rays, Red Sox, Red Sox Report, Royals, Sammy Sosa, Sandy Leon, Sean Manaea, Sox, Steven Wright, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Rays, Ted Williams, Texas, Texas Rangers, Toronto, Toronto Blue Jays, Twins, Tyler Thornburg, world series, Xander Bogaerts, Yankee Stadium, Yankees, Yanks

When the Red Sox began the season 17-2, I knew they would not be able to finish the season going at that pace. So it is understandable that the Red Sox have gone 8-7 in their last 15 games. It does not mean the Red Sox are a fluke. They have still shown signs in the last 14 games that they are capable contenders. But they cannot win every game, and 8 to 10-game winning streaks interrupted by just a loss or two is not realistic for any team to maintain.

But Mookie Betts is still on fire, and Hanley Ramirez has still put up much better numbers to start 2018. J.D. Martinez has also begun to heat up. Betts has gotten to the point in his hot streak where he’s breaking HR records. We will look at Betts’ records, the cooling off of the Red Sox, and much more in this edition of the Red Sox Report.

Red Sox Beginning to Cool Off, But It’s Not a Major Concern

As I said above, although the Sox have cooled off, the Red Sox have still shown qualities of an elite playoff contender. I still think they have the potential to make a deep run this year. What concerns me a little bit is who they have been losing to. They lost a series to the Rays to start their most recent homestand. Tampa barely has a starting rotation. But even a blind squirrel eventually finds an acorn. They also struggled and got no-hit against the Athletics. The A’s are not terrible, they have a powerful young lineup and an improving rotation. But after a 17-2 start, I did not expect A’s SP Sean Manaea to no-hit the Red Sox. It shows that our lineup is very streaky, feast or famine.

Struggles against the mediocre teams is a problem, but the Red Sox have been pretty good against tough opponents like the Angels and Blue Jays. What the Red Sox need right now is to be competitive against playoff contenders. If they continue to prove that they are capable of that, I will be much more confident in their World Series chances. But if they cannot show up against subpar teams, how will they be able to continue to thrive against contenders?

Sox Lineup Has Been Streaky But Has High Ceiling

The Red Sox lineup has really struggled at times. They have scored 3 or fewer runs in 4 of their 9 losses so far. But when the lineup is on a good streak, it can carry the team. At its best, this lineup could probably carry the Red Sox all the way to the World Series. But several guys have failed to come through in recent weeks. Christian Vazquez, Sandy Leon, and Jackie Bradley Jr. are all batting under .200, and Eduardo Nunez hasn’t looked like the same guy that boosted the Red Sox lineup on the brink of contention. Everyone in this lineup has struggled at some point this season.

But when on a hot streak, this lineup can take the league by storm. There were several hot hitters that led us to our amazing start, and a few of our hitters are still on fire. J.D. Martinez is 21 for his last 47 (.447) and has hit 3 dingers in that span. Mookie Betts has been on fire all season. Read more about Betts’ hot streak in the next section.

Mookie Betts Still On Fire, Now He’s Making History

Betts is batting .352 (5th in the league) with 13 home runs (leading the league) and a 1.257 OPS (leading the league) on the season. In addition, he’s 12 for his last 23 (.522). He has hit 11 of the homers in his last 15 games and has had two 3 HR games this season (one soon after Marathon Monday in Anaheim, and another at Fenway this week against the Royals). It’s only the start of May, and he had these 3 HR games within two weeks of each other. He also had a pair of 3 HR games back in 2016. He and Johnny Mize are the only players to ever have a pair of 3 HR games two times in their career.

Betts also passed Ted Williams for the most 3-HR games in team history. Betts is only 25. He has plenty of time in his career for more multi-HR games. Could he become the first person to have two 3-HR games in three different seasons? Could he eventually break the MLB 3 HR game record? It is currently held by Mize and Sammy Sosa (6). Betts is in the Top 10 with 4. Betts is tied for 2nd with Manny Machado for multi-HR games since 2016 (11). Betts and Machado are behind just Giancarlo Stanton (14). Betts is more than just our leadoff hitter. He is one of baseball’s biggest stars. But there is an argument for why he should remain our leadoff hitter, and I look at that in my next Baseball Bits.

Injury Report: Thornburg Begins Rehab, Several Activated Over Last Two Weeks

The Red Sox have continued to be hit by the injury bug. Brock Holt went on the DL in late April with a hamstring strain. Mookie Betts was also hurt for a few days in late April with hamstring issues but has since returned and continued to dominate. He also left today’s game with a wrist injury. But several of our previously injured players have returned over the last couple of weeks. Xander Bogaerts was activated last weekend, and he lost his hot streak on the DL, but he went 3-4 in his first game back and has continued to hit well, batting .303 since his return. Bobby Poyner has also returned from his injury but did not return to the big league roster until May 4th after a stint with the Paw Sox.

Steven Wright has returned from the DL too, but he is currently serving a 15-game domestic violence suspension. Joe Kelly recently returned from his 6-game suspension after the Sox-Yankees brawl in April. Eduardo Rodriguez was also out for a few days on a family medical leave but was activated on the 5th to start against the Rangers. He did not miss a start during his absence. Tyler Thornburg, Austin Maddox, Marco Hernandez, Brock Holt, and Dustin Pedroia are the players that remain on the DL. Thornburg has begun his rehab assignment, and Pedroia has been rehabbing at extended spring training. Pedey is targeting a May 25 big league return. Brock Holt is expected to return next week.

Sox Have Caught a Break vs. Royals, Rangers, But Round 2 With Flaming Hot Yankees Ahead

After a tough road trip, the Red Sox have enjoyed a relatively easy schedule over the last week and a half. They have played the Rays, Royals, and Rangers. Despite having a tough time against the Rays (who have won 11 of their last 14 on a hot streak), the Red Sox have caught a break against the Royals and Rangers, who they won 5 of 7 against. But after that, the Red Sox could have another difficult stretch ahead, starting with a 3 game series at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees have won 14 of their last 15, and this was against playoff contenders.

The Yanks have swept the Twins, Indians, and Angels, and took 3 of 4 in Houston. If the Yankees continue to thrive against Boston, they will be proven as serious contenders. But Boston had an impressive 17-2 stretch of their own. Although it may not have been against as difficult opponents, the Sox did take 2 out of 3 when they hosted the Yankees. However, the Yankees were without C.C. Sabathia and Aaron Hicks in that series. They have also called up Gleyber Torres, who has done very well since that series. They have lost Jordan Montgomery and a couple relievers to the DL since the series though.

That’s all for this edition of the Red Sox Report. Stay tuned for more Red Sox posts coming soon.

Big Night For Boston: Sox, Bruins Win On Big Stage

April 14, 2018April 15, 2018 Andrew Roberts Bruins, Game Recaps, MLB, NHL, Red Sox, Uncategorized Aaron Judge, Andrew Benintendi, Atlantic Division, B's, Baltimore, Baltimore Orioles, Benny, Boston, Boston Bruins, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Bruins, David Backes, E-Rod, Eduardo Nunez, Eduardo Rodriguez, Gary Sanchez, Hanley Ramirez, Jackie Bradley Jr., JBJ, Leafs, Los Angeles Angels, Maple Leafs, Marcus Walden, Mitch Moreland, Mookie Betts, Nazem Kadri, New York, New York Yankees, Orioles, Red Sox, Rick Nash, Rick Porcello, Riley Nash, Sandy Leon, Sonny Gray, Sox, Stanley Cup Playoffs, TD Garden, Tommy Wingels, Toronto, Toronto Maple Leafs, world series, Yankees, Yanks, Zach Hyman

Boston sports fans needed 2 TVs on Thursday night as the Red Sox battled the Yankees in the series rubber match and the Bruins kicked off their 2018 playoff hockey against a tough Toronto squad. Most fans likely flipped back and forth and if they were lucky didn’t miss a run or goal and both teams dominated. The Sox have now won three in a row after more dominance today and the Bruins are on tonight so no flipping is needed.

The Red Sox topped the Yankees 6-3, winning their first series of 2018 against New York. The Sox looked very good throughout the series. Although both teams are suffering numerous injuries, I think this is a good sign that the Red Sox may be ready to contend for a World Series title. Some people believed the opposite before this series, as the Red Sox had faced only rebuilding teams before their series against the Yanks. If they can do well against the 12-3 Los Angeles Angels and start next week’s west coast road trip off right, that will continue to solidify the Red Sox position as a true contender to win the AL East again and maybe go further.

While the Bruins limped into the playoffs losing 4 of their last 5 to miss a chance to lock down the #1 seed, they returned to midseason form Thursday and dominated in Game 1. They blew out Toronto 5-1. The Bruins refused to let injuries hold them back, and the depth of their roster helped them. If the Bruins can bring the same intensity for the rest of the series, the Maple Leafs may struggle to win a game, let alone the series. The top line of Marchand, Bergeron, and Pastrnak played extremely well and their play really shined on the power play as the Bruins were 3 for 6, scoring one PP goal in each period.

Please read on for a few more details on the big night for the Sox and B’s.

Porcello Dominant, Red Sox Cruise to Victory

The Red Sox came out aggressive fearing a rain-shortened game and put up 6 runs over the first 3 innings on their way to victory over the Yankees, 6-3. Rick Porcello was dominant on the mound and had a no-hitter through six and finished with seven scoreless innings, giving up just two hits. Porcello stayed warm waiting out a rain delay after five innings but Rick came back into the game showing no ill effects from the delay. His no-hitter came to an end in the 7th inning when Yankees star hitter Aaron Judge doubled to break it up.

The Red Sox grabbed hold of a lead early in the game. Hanley Ramirez, who has been on fire of late, left the game in the 1st after being hit in the hand by Sonny Gray but that did not stop the Red Sox. Eduardo Nunez led off in the next inning with a base hit. The cold was giving him knee discomfort as he raced down the first base line but he decided to keep on playing. JBJ walked to make it 1st and 2nd, and Sandy Leon drove in the run with a single. Brock Holt got on base with another walk to load the bases, and all three runners advanced one base when Mookie Betts hit a deep sac fly, making it 2-0 Red Sox with men on 2nd and 3rd. Andrew Benintendi then grounded to second base with the infield in. The Yankees chose to throw home but the throw bounced in by Sanchez and allowed Leon to score. Holt advanced to 3rd and Benny had time to advance to 2nd. Mitch Moreland, in off the bench for Hanley, drove in the fourth run with a single despite limited playing time this year.

The Sox scored again the 3rd. Eduardo Nunez doubled to right, and JBJ hit a ground rule double to knock him in. Sandy Leon struck out on a pitch in the dirt that got away. Another bad defensive choice by the Yankees allowed Leon to reach as Gary Sanchez fired to 3rd but JBJ slid in safely. Mookie Betts knocked him in with a ground ball to the right side, 6-0 Boston. Betts ended up going 0 for 4 but he had 2 RBI on the night.

The Yankees did not score until the top of the 9th when reliever Marcus Walden gave up a bases-clearing double to Gary Sanchez with the bases loaded. Craig Kimbrel came in to finish the job, and the Red Sox won 6-3.

Injury Update: Hanley Ramirez did suffer a wrist contusion but avoided a more serious injury. He was out of the lineup Friday against Baltimore but returned today with a Home Run.

What’s Next: The Red Sox have taken the first 2 games against the Orioles in a 4-game Fenway series as Eduardo Rodriguez dominated again against his former team as he has struck out more batters against the Orioles than any other opponent in his career. The Sox won easily 7-3. Velazquez gave up just 2 runs in 5 strong innings as the Sox cruised to a 10-3 victory and weather permitting hope Sale can keep the strong pitching streak for Sox starters going.

Bruins Dominate vs. Leafs, Led By Power Play success

The Bruins dominated in Game 1 of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They topped a strong Toronto Maple Leafs squad, 5-1, with David Backes scoring one goal and being robbed of a second. Rick Nash also made an impact returning after a long absence. The Bruins dominated in their power plays, scoring a power-play goal in every period. One PP goal was during a 5-minute major power play due to a gruesome hit Nazem Kadri put on Tommy Wingels, knocking him out of the game. Kadri is suspended for the next 3 games of the series, and if the Bruins continue to dominate, he may not play another game this season.

Zach Hyman scored the only goal for Toronto when the Leafs tied it up in the 1st period. After that, the Leafs fell out of it due to 4 unanswered Bruins goals.

Injury Update: Wingels is out for Game 2 after being hit by Kadri. Riley Nash is doubtful with an ear laceration. Donato is playing for Wingels.

What’s Next: The Bruins take on the Leafs at the TD Garden again tonight. It is being aired on prime time on NBC. The Bruins have jumped out to a 5-2 lead early in the 2nd period, going 2 for 2 on the power play and scoring another 4 unanswered goals to begin the game.

Stay tuned for more Red Sox and Bruins coverage soon, including my latest Red Sox Report.

Crazy 8th for Sox 8th Win

April 8, 2018April 8, 2018 Andrew Roberts Game Recaps, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized Aaron Hicks, Aaron Judge, Adeiny Hechavarria, Alex Colome, Andrew Benintendi, Andrew Kittredge, Billy McKinney, Bobby Poynner, Bogey, Boston, Boston Red Sox, Brad Miller, Brandon Drury, Brian Johnson, Brock Holt, C-Vazzy, C.C. Sabathia, C.J. Cron, Carlos Gomez, Carson Smith, Craig Kimbrel, Daniel Robertson, E-Rod, Eduardo Nunez, Eduardo Rodriguez, Gary Sanchez, Giancarlo Stanton, Hanley, Hanley Ramirez, Hector Velazquez, J.D. Martinez, Jacoby Ellsbury, Joe Kelly, Joey Wendle, Kevin Kiermaier, Matt Andriese, Matt Duffy, Mitch Moreland, MLB, Mookie Betts, New York, New York Yankees, Rafael Devers, Rays, Red Sox, Red Sox-Yankees, Ryan Yarbrough, Sox, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Rays, Tyler Wade, Xander Bogaerts, Yankees, Yanks

After a 7-1 start to the season for the Red Sox, things were not looking good for them today. They were down 7-2 heading into the 8th inning, as the Rays had scored at least one run in six straight innings. Eduardo Rodriguez had been knocked out of the game after 3.2 innings, forcing the Red Sox to use numerous relievers to finish off the game. The bullpen struggled as Hector Velazquez, Bobby Poyner, and Brian Johnson gave up four runs in 3 1/3 innings But the Red Sox came all the way back to beat the Tampa Bay Rays 8-7 and extend their winning streak to eight games. Hanley Ramirez and Mookie Betts extended their hitting streaks to 7 games each, as they led the Sox offense.

The Red Sox started off strong with a leadoff double by Mookie Betts, and Betts was driven in by Hanley Ramirez’s groundout. But the Rays struck back quickly, with DH C.J. Cron hitting a solo homer. Early on, Eduardo Rodriguez was doing well, striking out five batters, including the side in the 1st inning. But the Rays were working the count and and E-Rod’s was over 70 after three innings.

While the Rays were not crushing the ball after Cron’s home run, they scored one run every inning from the 2nd all the way to the 7th. In the 3rd inning, E-Rod gave up a walk followed by a infield single that was originally ruled an out. Matt Duffy was clearly safe, so it was a smart challenge by the Rays. The run scored on a double by Carlos Gomez.

In the 4th inning, Daniel Robertson reached on another infield single for the Rays. 3B Rafael Devers could not make the throw in time. That was followed by a Brad Miller walk, and Adeiny Hechavarria drove in the run with a bloop single that Andrew Benintendi couldn’t quite get to. The Rays were trying to continue the rally, as Matt Duffy singled again after E-Rod left the game, but Hector Velazquez came in to get the last out.

Velazquez gave up a run in the next inning, as Daniel Robertson singled, stole second, and came home on Brad Miller’s base hit. The Sox chipped away in the bottom of that inning. They loaded the bases after a walk, a Christian Vazquez single, and another walk. Rays reliever Ryan Yarbrough had come in to replace Andrew Kittredge after two innings. Today, the Rays reliever combo to start was game was able to hold the Sox to just two runs through six innings, but it was not easy.

With two outs in the fifth, Hanley Ramirez ripped an infield single that Adeiny Hechavarria snagged to save more runs from scoring. J.D. Martinez followed, but struck out with the bases loaded. Martinez was the only Sox starter without a hit, but that did not keep the Sox from winning.

The Rays scored again in the 6th after Kevin Kiermaier hit a triple off the Green Monster to drive in Matt Duffy, who had walked. Kiermaier hit the triple off of Bobby Poyner, but Velazquez was charged with the run as he had walked Duffy before leaving the game. Brian Johnson came in in the 7th and struggled, giving up two more runs. Daniel Robertson walked, and came home on a triple by pinch hitter Joey Wendle. On that play, Xander Bogaerts hurt his ankle as he had to chase the ball into the Rays dugout after throwing to third before Devers was there. He will be evaluated further on Monday, but his timetable is currently unknown. Bogaerts was helped off the field, and it was really concerning when he couldn’t leave without assistance because he has been Boston’s best hitter so far this season. Brock Holt came in to replace him.

Tampa scored their second run of the inning off Johnson after a sac fly drove in Wendle. The Sox failed to get things going in the bottom of the 7th, but after Carson Smith came into the game, the Rays failed to score another run. They loaded the bases after a walk, a Carlos Gomez single, and a walk. But Smith escaped the inning by striking out Daniel Robertson.

This looked like it was going to be a Rays win, as after Hanley Ramirez led things off with a single and advanced to second on a wild pitch, the next two batters struck out and flew out.

But with two outs, Mitch Moreland, who was a doubles machine last year, hit his first double (and hit) of 2018, driving in Ramirez to make it 7-3 Rays. Eduardo Nunez singled and Moreland advanced to third. Rafael Devers then knocked a ball down the third base line that bounced off the left field garage, allowing both Moreland and Nunez to score.

Jul 5, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) reacts after giving up a home run against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

With that, Rays reliever Matt Andriese was done, and Rays closer Alex Colome came in, hoping to secure the 7-5 lead the Rays were still holding on to. The Red Sox had done well against Colome in the home opener. Just in case the rally continued, Cora got star closer Craig Kimbrel warming up in the bullpen next to Joe Kelly.

Christian Vazquez kept the rally alive with a base hit. Devers scored, making it 7-6 Red Sox. Vazquez advanced to second on another wild pitch. Mookie Betts tied it up with a line single to left as Vazquez came in to score with a nifty slide to avoid the tag. Andrew Benintendi kept the rally alive by doubling to the left field gap to drive in Betts. The outfielders were playing shallow as Benny’s double did not reach the Green Monster. It was now 8-7 Red Sox.

Kimbrel came in and quickly retired the side, as the Red Sox locked up their comeback victory, 8-7. This was by far their most exciting game of the season. The Sox faced easy opponents, but the Red Sox are now 8-1 to start the season, their best record ever after nine games. They had not even started 7-1 since 1904, a World Series-winning year.

The Red Sox head into their three-game series against the Yankees on fire. Will they win their first series against their archrivals? The Yankees have been depleted by injuries, and are just 5-5 after losing to Baltimore today in a 12 inning game. With Gary Sanchez, Greg Bird, Brandon Drury, Aaron Hicks, Jacoby Ellsbury, C.C. Sabathia, and Billy McKinney all injured, the Sox should certainly have the edge.

Red Sox Stay Hot, Crush Tigers

August 20, 2016August 23, 2016 Andrew Roberts Game Recaps, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized Andrew Benintendi, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Comerica Park, Daniel Norris, David Ortiz, Detroit Tigers, Drew Pomeranz, Dustin Pedroia, Eduardo Rodriguez, Fernando Abad, Fireworks Night, Hanley Ramirez, Ian Kinsler, J.D. Martinez, Jackie Bradley Jr., Jarrod Saltalamacchia, JBJ, Justin Verlander, Michael Fulmer, MLB, Pedey, Red Sox, Rick Porcello, Sandy Leon, Sox, Tigers, Xander Bogaerts, Yoenis Cespedes

The Red Sox got a big win over the Detroit Tigers last night, blowing them out 10-2. Rick Porcello went 7 strong innings while Hanley and Pedey stayed hot and David Ortiz and JBJ jacked homers.

The Red Sox started off the game with a 4 run, 2 dinger 1st inning. Xander Bogaerts showed signs of overcoming his slump as he started off the game with a base hit after Pedroia grounded out to second. Then David Ortiz crushed the ball high into right field. It was long gone, a no-doubter. Then after Betts flew out to right, Hanley Ramirez stayed hot since returning to the club with another base hit. JBJ then blasted one in the same direction as Ortiz’s for the 2nd HR of the inning. Red Sox took a 4-0 lead to start the game, very assuring after collapsing in the first game of the series.

But the Tigers struck back in the 2nd and took advantage of Porcello’s weakness from 2015, giving up home runs. It would’ve been a solo shot but Porcello could not hang on to the throw to 1st and J.D. Martinez had himself a 2-run dinger. Later in the game J.D. Martinez lined a hit through Xander Bogaerts’ broken glove. J. D. would go 2 for 3 on the day but he would account for half the hits Porcello gave up in 7 stellar innings.

This was Porcello’s first start in Detroit since being traded for Yoenis Cespedes and he showed he was comfortable at Comerica after all those years with the Tigers, who also have a lot of former Red Sox on their roster. The Tigers threatened only one more time and had 1st and 2nd in the 4th but former Sox’ catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia failed to extend a potential 2-out rally.

Bogaerts got another hit in the 5th and after an Ortiz walk, the Red Sox had a scoring opportunity of their own. But Mookie Betts grounded into a force out. I don’t think Betts was at fault though. Miguel Cabrera robbed what could have been a nice hit for Andrew Benintendi, who has already been electric in Boston. It was 4-2 Red Sox. Would they hold on? Oh yeah they did! They dropped 6 more runs on the board! Three innings in a row they scored a pair of runs.

In the 6th, the middle of the Sox lineup was shut down. But with two outs in the inning and the bases empty, Sandy Leon came up to bat. With four dingers in the 10 games prior to this, Leon was in good shape for a clutch hit. He cracked an infield single on a low pitch. Then up came Brock Holt. Holt hit another one up the middle. The Sox had first and second with Andrew Benintendi up, looking for revenge after Miguel Cabrera robbed his first potential hit. He came through with a bloop single up the middle to score the inning’s 1st run. Then Pedey came up with 1st and 3rd. Ian Kinsler was covering second as Benintendi ran with the pitch, opening a whole for Pedroia to knock one between first and second right where Kinsler had been positioned. That allowed another Sox run and knocked Michael Fulmer out of the game! He was fresh off a complete game against the AL leading Rangers but today he gave up 6 runs in 5.2 innings against the feisty Sox lineup!

The Sox kept it up in the 7th. David Ortiz got on for the third time as he punched a big single to right. Mookie Betts got his first hit, a line drive single into left just above Erick Aybar. 1st and 2nd for Hanley Ramirez. Ramirez knocked a double high up into right. The opposite-field hit was in the gap allowing both Ortiz and Betts to score and it was 8-2 Red Sox.

The Red Sox struck again in the 8th! Andrew Benintendi drove a change-up into right for a stand-up double to start the inning. Pedroia followed with an infield single, his second hit of the day. He stayed hot riding a 10-game hitting streak. He may not like hitting lead off but he sure is good at it. 1st and 2nd for Bogaerts, who was heading in the opposite direction until a multi-hit game tonight. The center fielder caught his fly ball but Benintendi advanced to third. Up came Travis Shaw who was hitting for David Ortiz and he walked. Later Hanley Ramirez did it again, ripping a 2-run double to left.

The Red Sox were on a roll. They were up 10-2 as the lineup was explosive, Porcello was dominant, and they even had a nice double play ball to end the 7th. It was Fireworks Night at Comerica but they might as well have canceled it because the Red Sox bats took care of that. The bullpen was even good. Fernando Abad pitched a 15 pitch inning in 9th inning garbage time. They shut the Tigers down and 10-2 was the final score.

The Red Sox have two more crucial games against the Tigers. They will face Daniel Norris and Justin Verlander with Drew Pomeranz and Eduardo Rodriguez pitching for Boston. Will they win their way into playoff contention, or flop in the 2nd half of the trip? They are now only a half game out from Toronto. The Jays lost to Cleveland by late back to back homers, one outside the park and one for the first walk-off inside the park winning HR ever in MLB!

The Red Sox are in good shape and I think they might surprise a lot of fans after 2 last place seasons. Stay tuned!

Betts Cycle Chase, Wright’s Strong Outing Lead Red Sox Past ‘Stros

April 23, 2016April 23, 2016 Andrew Roberts Game Recaps, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized 'Stros, Astros, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Carlos Gomez, Chris Devenski, Chris Young, Collin McHugh, Craig Kimbrel, Dustin Pedroia, George Springer, Hanley Ramirez, Houston, Houston Astros, Jackie Bradley Jr., Minute Maid Park, MLB, Mookie Betts, Red Sox, Robbie Ross Jr., Ryan Hanigan, Sox, Steven Wright, Tony Sipp, Travis Shaw, Xander Bogaerts

Top of the 9th, 5-1 Sox. Lead off Mookie Betts up to bat, who was a homer shy of hitting for the cycle. He lines it into right, it gets past Springer, he’s going for two, he’s going for three! Could it be an inside-the-park home run to hit for the cycle?!!!! Mookie Betts had just hit a stand-up triple, almost an inside the park homer.

With a strong outing by Steven Wright and a powerful lineup, especially the 1-3 hitters, the Red Sox topped the Astros 6-2 to start a 5 game road trip. They have two more games in Houston before heading to Atlanta. Mookie Betts was 4-5 with a double and two triples, one almost an inside the park home run that would give him the cycle. David Ortiz was also honored and received a cowboy hat as a gift from Minute Maid Park and the Houston Astros.

The Sox took right off in the 1st when Mookie Betts managed to turn a base hit into a triple. He was quickly driven in on Dustin Pedroia’s single. Xander Bogaerts kept it going on a base hit, and Bogaerts was driven in by Hanley Ramirez on a sac fly after a Big Papi walk that loaded the bases. It was just a few feet away from being a grand slam, but Colby Rasmus got it and the Sox were held to just 2 runs after all that. Collin McHugh got back in a jam when the top of the lineup struck again. 9th hitter Jackie Bradley Jr. got a double and Mookie Betts drove him in with a second double. 3-0 Red Sox.

While Steven Wright had only given up two hits and let one runner past first base, the Red Sox continued to rally on. Hanley Ramirez got a line drive single up the middle and Travis Shaw got a base hit to sent him to third. A wild pitch by struggling McHugh sent Shaw to second. Brock Holt got the sharp RBI single to drive Hanley in, but Ryan Hanigan grounded into a double play to end the inning with a man on 3rd. What a rally!

The next inning Mookie Betts got on base again, and Xander Bogaerts knocked an RBI double all the way down the third base line. After the inning, McHugh was taken out of the game. Reliever Chris Devenski gave up three hits over 2 innings, but no runs. The Red Sox had a lead secure however, winning 5-0. Tony Sipp got a 1-2-3 in the 7th, and Steven Wright gave up the first run on two walks and two passed balls by Ryan Hanigan.

The Red Sox answered in the top of 9th when Mookie Betts hit his second triple, and he scored on a wild pitch. Xander Bogaerts was next hit by the pitch on the forearm and had to be pulled from the game. He is still on the active roster but not in today’s starting lineup. Chris Young pinch ran for Bogaerts. In the bottom of the 9th, Robbie Ross Jr. was in trouble. He gave up a single to Carlos Gomez and a walk to pinch hitter Jake Marisnick. George Springer knocked in a run on an RBI single to left and Ross came out of the game.

Closer Craig Kimbrel secured the final out and got the save as the Red Sox came out victorious, taking down the ‘Stros by 4. The Red Sox play Game 2 in Houston today. Can they keep it going against the struggling Astros?

Betts’s Big Night, Porcello’s Deep Outing Lead Red Sox to Victory

April 21, 2016April 21, 2016 Andrew Roberts Game Recaps, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized Big Papi, Blake Swihart, BoSox, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Chris Archer, Chris Young, Christian Vazquez, Corey Dickerson, Dana Eveland, David Ortiz, Jake McGee, Junichi Tazawa, Kevin Kiermaier, Logan Forsythe, MLB, Mookie Betts, Noe Ramirez, Rays, Red Sox, Rick Porcello, Sox, Steven Souza Jr., Tampa, Tampa Bay Rays, Xander Bogaerts

1 out. Man on 2nd. All-around big hitter Mookie Betts was at the plate. The count at 2-1, he nailed it high into left field and it was gone! Mookie Betts had hit his third homer of the season, as it flew over the monster then hit a stairwell and bounced back down onto the field.

That was the mood for most of the night as their lineup powered them over the Rays, 7-3. After losing Joe Kelly 0.2 innings in last night to injury, the bullpen was exhausted, but Rick Porcello helped them out by going 7 innings, giving up just 6 hits, 3 runs, a walk and a homer and striking out 9. He got the win; he is now 3-0 with a 4.66 ERA, a large improvement from last season so far. Chris Archer continued his slump. Giving up 8 hits, 6 runs, 3 walks and a homer and striking out just 6 in a 4.1 inning outing. He got the loss and is 0-4 with a whopping 7.32 ERA.

The Red Sox went big in the 1st inning as they stole the first run. With Mookie Betts walked, Dustin Pedroia hit a one-hopper into left, sending Betts to 2nd. Xander Bogaerts drove Betts in and advanced Pedroia to second on a single to left. David Ortiz drove in Bogaerts and Pedroia with a line drive double into center. It was 3-0 Red Sox already. The Red Sox carried their momentum to the 2nd. With JBJ on second, Mookie Betts blasted a homer over the monster to score two more. It was now 5-0.

In the top of the 3rd, the Rays couldn’t score but at least got their first hit off Rick Porcello when Steven Souza Jr. reached on an infield single. The next play was similar, a grounder to 3rd, but this time the Red Sox challenged the hit. They won the challenge and it was 1 down with a man on 2nd. Souza stole third when the next batter came up, but the Rays didn’t have the chance to drive him in.

In the top of the 4th, after a Corey Dickerson double and a walk by Desmond Jennings to make it 1st and 2nd, Mookie Betts made a jumping grab for out #3. In the bottom of the 5th, Xander Bogaerts got back on base and Big Papi drove him in on a sharp line drive double to right. That did it for Chris Archer. Dana Eveland came in for him with one out on the inning. Brock Holt kept things going with 2 outs on a base hit, and stole second with Vazquez up, but Vazquez struck out. Vazquez may not be a benefit in the lineup, but he is behind the plate. The Red Sox are currently trying to move Blake Swihart (a good offensive catcher who struggles on defense) to the outfield.

However, when the 6th inning came, Brock Holt was at shortstop and Chris Young in left. Bogaerts had hurt his quad on his way home in the 5th. He was day to day, but it was since announced he will play in Thursday’s game vs. Tampa with David Price on the hill. With that, the Rays took off. Logan Forsythe tripled, and after Logan Morrison’s strike out, he went home on Evan Longoria’s ground out. Up came Corey Dickerson, who they got from Colorado for reliever Jake McGee to add a little power to the lineup. He hit a solo blast off Rick Porcello, his 4th tater of the season.

In the 6th, Mookie Betts got a base hit and stole second. Chris Young drove him in on a two out line drive single. Young only had 2 hits until that, and that was his first RBI. In the 7th, the Rays answered on a Kevin Kiermaier double and Hank Conger RBI single. It was now 7-3, the Rays still trailing the BoSox. In the next couple of innings, the Red Sox bullpen took control. Between Junichi Tazawa and Noe Ramirez, they only gave up 1 hit and 1 walk, and struck out 2. Red Sox, 7, Rays, 3. That was the final score from Boston.

The Red Sox have a chance to win the series if they grab a W in today’s 1:30 game. Do you think this year’s team has a chance? Comment below.

Holt Grand Slam, Impressive Bullpen Leads Sox to Comeback Win

April 9, 2016April 9, 2016 Andrew Roberts Game Recaps, MLB, Red Sox, Uncategorized Big Papi, Blue Jays, Boston, Boston Red Sox, Brock Holt, Bullpen, Craig Kimbrel, Grand Slam, Hanley Ramirez, Jays, Joe Kelly, Josh Donaldson, Junichi Tazawa, Kevin Pillar, MLB, Pablo Sandoval, Panda, Red Sox, Rusney Castillo, Sox, Toronto, Toronto Blue Jays, Travis Shaw, Xander Bogaerts

Bases loaded, 1 out. Toronto led 7-2. Then suddenly, Holt cracked it into right, and it was gone!!!!

The Red Sox came back to haunt the Blue Jays after trailing by five at the end of the fourth. Their bullpen held the Jays to no scoring from innings 5-9, and their lineup produced 6 runs in the span of two innings. Brock Holt had a monstrous game, going 2-3 with 5 RBI, 1 run, a double and a grand slam. Xander Bogaerts added a 3 hit, 3 run game.

The Sox started off sloppy in the first inning with a 1-2-3 and a run given up by Joe Kelly. Kevin Pillar hit a lead off triple and with first and third, Edwin Encarnacion hit the sac fly that scored the run. By the end of the inning, despite two strikeouts, Kelly had given up a triple, two walks and a run off a sac fly. The Red Sox turned things around in the next couple innings. Hanley Ramirez got a single but was caught running to second. Travis Shaw and Brock Holt made up for it with back to back doubles that scored a run for the Sox. Starting Brock Holt and Travis Shaw rather than Panda and Castillo was worth it. It didn’t end for them there. Holt and Shaw had become a crucial part of the lineup. A Xander Bogaerts single along with an impressive RBI double by Big Papi scored the 2nd run for the Sox in the 3rd.

Joe Kelly also had more control in the 2nd and 3rd, he had two straight innings with only 1 hit or walk, but no 1-2-3 innings. In the 4th, Kelly just lost it. With Kevin Pillar up, he had given up four straight singles and a 2nd run. That’s when things just got worse. He hit Pillar in the head, scoring another run! Then Josh Donaldson, reigning AL MVP, came up to the plate. He crushed one into right and there went a grand slam. It was now 7-2 Blue Jays, Kelly had barely made it three innings, (he got pulled after the grand slam) and worst of all, it looked like the Red Sox could not win without David Price. Noe Ramirez even gave up two more hits before a third out in that same inning.

But in the 6th, the Red Sox began to prove everyone wrong. Xander Bogaerts drove a double to left, and Big Papi walked. When Hanley Ramirez grounded out, they both advanced a base. Travis Shaw then walked to load the bases. Guess who was back up? Brock Holt. Holt just barely got the grand slam to right. It looked like he would have to settle for a double but just reached the bullpen. The Sox had suddenly cut Toronto’s lead to just 1 run.

Meanwhile, the bullpen was impressing everyone. The Blue Jays lineup was held to just 1 hit since the dreaded 4th inning.

In the 7th, the Red Sox went on a two run, four hit rally. David Ortiz drove in run #1 of the inning on a base hit that drove in Pedroia. Hanley Ramirez drove in the 2nd run with Big Papi on first and Bogaerts on third. With that Bogaerts scored his third run of the game. It was now 8-7, the Red Sox leading. Junichi Tazawa additionally got the Boston bullpen their first 1-2-3 on the Jays. They were trying their hardest to stay in control until Craig Kimbrel was ready to close the game. After a quiet two innings for the Sox lineup, Kimbrel went out to finish the game on a 1-2-3.

After a game full of grand slams, rallying and big surprises, the Red Sox had come back to take down the Blue Jays 8-7. If they keep playing like this, they could actually fight for a playoff spot. Even if their rotation is iffy beyond Price, just as I said in my Opening Day Preview, the powerful lineup and bullpen just need to stay consistent for a good season. To go beyond getting a wild card, the Sox will need to be capable of outplaying the Jays head to head. That could be their key to their first pennant in three years. Catch game 2 of Red Sox @ Blue Jays on NESN. The Bruins also play their final regular season game as they fight for a playoff slot. Things are looking up for Boston Sports this weekend.

Napoli, Red Sox Edge Rays

August 1, 2015 Andrew Roberts MLB, Red Sox, Game Recaps Red Sox, MLB, Sox, Boston Red Sox, Alejandro De Aza, Koji Uehara, Xander Bogaerts, Mike Napoli, Blake Swihart, Junichi Tazawa, fenway Park, David Ortiz, Rusney Castillo, Brock Holt, Eduardo Rodriguez, Eddie Rodriguez, Boston, Travis Shaw, Rays, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Rays, Logan Forsythe, Asdrubal Cabrera, Evan Longoria, E-Rod, Big Papi, Koji, Josh Rutledge, Mikie Mahtook, Steven Souza Jr., Brandon Guyer, Tim Beckham, Erasmo Ramirez, Jake McGee, Brandon Gomes

The Red Sox edged over the Rays in a 7-5 win last night. Mike Napoli’s 7th inning home gave the lead back to the Red Sox after losing it.

The Rays scored first, walking and then singling into first and third. Then a walk by Logan Forsythe loaded the bases. Joey Butler grounded into a force out and lead runner Brandon Guyer scored. Evan Longoria made it safely to third, but Forsythe was out at second.

In the bottom of the 1st, Xander Bogaerts reached on a fielding error, by Logan Forsythe. Bogaerts went to second on Erasmo Ramirez’s wild pitch. Tim Beckham made another fielding error that made it first and third. Mike Napoli walked the bases loaded, and De Aza kept it that way with an RBI single. 1-1. Rusney Castillo then grounds into a force out, getting Ortiz at the plate. Blake Swihart knocked 2 runs in on a single the next at bat. 3-1 Sox.

The game stays action packed as recently called up Mikie Mahtook doubles. With two down, Brandon Guyer struck out, but on a wild pitch sending him to first and Mahtook to third. Steven Souza Jr. singles a run in. Then Evan longoria walks the bases loaded, but it doesn’t do it to tie things up. That inning, the Sox blow it with Brock Holt on second.

In the 3rd, Asdrubal Cabrera singles, and Mikie Mahtook singles him in. 1 run, 1 RBI for 2015 debuting Mikie Mahtook. the Red Sox struck again in the 5th. Holt singled, and Bogaerts advanced him to second. Then Napoli walked, and De Aza singled Holt in. In the 7th, the Rays struck. With 1st and second, John Jaso pinch hit doubled Mikie Mahtook in for his second run of the night. Joey Butler also scored from first, and Jaso went to third on a Blake Swihart error, and just like that it was 5-4 Rays. In the bottom of the inning, big Papi hit a ball just foul that could ave gone for a double. He ended up walking. Napoli hit his dinger to give the Sox a 6-5 lead.

For the most part, it was a quiet game after that. Blake Swihart douled, and scored on a wild pitch off Brandon Gomes followed by a Josh Rutledge single to extend the lead to 7-5, but that was it. Uehara got the save. The Red Sox beat the Rays 7-5, Junichi Tazawa the winning pitcher, Jake McGee the losing pitcher. Tampa Bay had 3 errors and the Red Sox had 2. A win today and it a winning streak. A 6-0 lead and Travis Shaw’s first career dinger after 4 innings looks good.

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