Red Sox Aim for Series Win Against Mariners After Tough Loss

SEATTLE — The Boston Red Sox are gearing up to face the Seattle Mariners at 4:10 p.m. today after suffering an 8-0 defeat in their last game. The loss halted the Red Sox’s winning streak at six games and showcased the challenges of playing without star player Rafael Devers.

In the previous game, Red Sox pitcher Walker Buehler allowed eight runs on eight hits and four walks over just 3⅓ innings, ending a stretch of seven quality starts for the rotation. Meanwhile, the team managed only two hits, indicating a struggling offense.

Despite the setback, the Red Sox can redeem themselves by winning the rubber match today. Left-hander Garrett Crochet, who holds a 6-4 record with a 2.24 ERA, will take the mound for Boston. Crochet’s last performance saw him allow just one run and four hits over 8⅓ innings against the Yankees, yet he did not receive a decision.

On the other side, Mariners pitcher Luis Castillo will be starting. Castillo has struggled in his recent outings, having not won a game in four starts since May 19 and carrying a 3.52 ERA.

The starting lineups for both teams include some notable players. For the Red Sox, Jarren Duran will start in left field, while Abraham Toro will play at first base. The Mariners’ lineup features players like Julio Rodríguez in center field and Cal Raleigh as catcher, who recently broke out of a slump with an impressive performance that included a grand slam against the Red Sox.

The Red Sox’s performance against Castillo has been a mixed bag, with various players posting varying statistics. Duran has hit 2 for 9 against him, while other key players like Trevor Story and Connor Wong are still looking for their first hits off Castillo.

With Devers sidelined, the team’s offense has struggled in two games, posting just two runs and six hits without their top hitter. The team is looking for contributions from its younger players during this challenging period.

Manager Alex Cora noted that Crochet has had some difficulties against the Mariners in previous games, with a 0-2 record and a 4.96 ERA against them. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s chances of winning the series this afternoon.

After today’s game, the Red Sox will head off for a brief break before continuing their West Coast trip with a series against the San Francisco Giants. Today’s match holds significant importance for the Red Sox as they seek to regain their momentum.