With a 9-3 victory over the Houston Astros, the Red Sox earned a split in their series against one of the best teams in baseball. This series was big for the Sox and they made a statement. Coming into the series the Red Sox had the best record in baseball. The Red Sox have received criticism for not having a difficult schedule compared to other teams. The Astros represented the perfect challenge; they have a potent lineup and the best rotation in baseball, including Justin Verlander, who is having a Cy Young year. The first two games went to Houston, but the Red Sox fought back.
Red Sox Drop First Two in Houston
The series did not start the way the Red Sox wanted. Drew Pomeranz started the opener and allowed four runs in five innings of work. The Sox were not able to muster much offense against the Astros’ pitching. Lance McCullers went six innings allowing only two runs, and the Astros’ bullpen pitched three scoreless innings to win 4-2. Game two also ended in a loss for the Red Sox, as the Astros won 7-3. Red Sox ace Chris sale gave up four runs in five innings of work. Joe Kelly who has been lights out gave up three runs, including two home runs, and Houston’s bullpen again shutdown the Red Sox hitters. It appeared as if the Red Sox may lose the series against a team that they have a very good chance of facing in the playoffs.
Photo Credit: AP Photo/David J. Phillip
Red Sox Battle Back
The Sox had different plans for game three as David Price took the mound. The Sox needed Price to be at his best, and he delivered. Price gave up three runs, but he went six innings and struck out seven batters to earn the win. The Red Sox received clutch home runs from Vazquez and Benintendi. They finally got to the Astros bullpen after Verlander departed. Will Harris gave up three runs. On Sunday the Sox were in complete control, as Astros starter Charlie Morton gave up six runs including two home runs. The Sox were led by Holt and Moreland, who combined for five runs batted in as the Sox won 9-3.
Photo Credit: Bob Levey/ Getty Images
What Does This Series Show?
The Red Sox faced their greatest challenge of the young season without their hottest player and veteran leader. They faced the Astros’ best three pitchers, who have all been the toughest in baseball this season. David Price and Rick Porcello showed up for Boston in this series. They split the series on the road after losing the first two. There is still a lot of baseball to be played, but the Red Sox showed what type of team they are in Houston.
