Red Sox Aim for Series Win Against Rays in Crucial Matchup

TAMPA, Fla. – The Boston Red Sox are looking to continue their offensive resurgence with a crucial game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. ET, as they aim to win their three-game series.

After struggling with only eight runs across their last six losses, the Red Sox broke the slump with a strong performance on Tuesday, recording 12 hits in their 8-3 victory over the Rays. A win in the series finale will bring Boston’s record to .500 at 10-10.

Left-hander Sean Newcomb (0-2, 4.97 ERA) will take the mound for the Red Sox, while the Rays counter with right-hander Zack Littell (0-3, 6.88 ERA). Newcomb has a mixed record against the Rays, with a 1-1 record and a 5.40 ERA over two career starts.

The Red Sox lineup will feature Jarren Duran in left field, followed by Rafael Devers as the designated hitter, and Trevor Story at shortstop. Other notable players include Wilyer Abreu, who has struggled against Littell with an 0-for-8 record, and Alex Bregman, who had a standout performance on Tuesday with five hits and four RBIs, marking the first five-hit game of his MLB career.

“I think we’re learning to put the ball in play and not get too caught up in the moment,” Bregman said after the game. “We have to carry this energy into the final game and play with confidence.”

For the Rays, the key offensive player to watch is Jonathan Aranda, who had two hits including a home run in Tuesday’s loss and boasts a .413 batting average this season. His performance will be critical in supporting Littell, who has found success against the Red Sox in the past, holding a 2-0 record with a 2.75 ERA in four career games.

The matchup holds significant importance for both teams, with each being one game under .500. The Red Sox sit at 9-10 in the American League East, while the Rays are at 8-9. Each team is looking to gain momentum in the early part of the season following short winning streaks.

Fans can catch the game on NESN and WEEI-FM 93.7. Streaming options are available through platforms like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream, which offer free trials for new users.

As the teams prepare to meet, the stage is set for a high-stakes encounter, with the potential to shift the fortunes for both the Red Sox and the Rays.