Red Sox, Cardinals’ Game Postponed; Doubleheader Set for Sunday

BOSTON, MA — The Boston Red Sox‘s scheduled game against the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday has been postponed due to rain, leading to a doubleheader set for Sunday. The first game will start at 1:35 p.m. ET, followed by the second game at 7:10 p.m. ET. Coverage for the first game will be available on NESN.

The Red Sox aimed to maintain their undefeated streak at home at Fenway Park against the Cardinals, but weather conditions altered those plans. Boston’s Manager Alex Cora has made strategic changes to the lineup for the upcoming games, including a notable debut for Kristian Campbell at center field, an announcement that quickly drew attention.

“He’s going to play himself into a Gold Glover in left field,” Cora stated about Jarren Duran, who has shifted to primarily play left. Instead of starting in left field as initially reported, Campbell’s position change puts him at center for the first time in his major league career. David Hamilton will play second base, while Connor Wong returns as catcher after Carlos Narváez filled in previously.

The starting pitcher for the Red Sox in the first game of the doubleheader is Richard Fitts, who is looking for his first victory of the season after suffering a loss previously. The Cardinals will counter with Andre Pallante, making minor alterations to their lineup, including Pedro Pagés replacing Iván Herrera behind the plate.

As they prepare for the games on Sunday, the Red Sox have a record of 4-4, and their performance this weekend is critical as they pursue a better standing in the American League East. A win in either of the doubleheader games will push them over the .500 mark for the first time this season.

The game that was supposed to take place on Saturday originally had a 4:10 p.m. ET start time. ESPN will give national coverage for the evening matchup.

The excitement surrounding Kristian Campbell’s adaptation to center field comes following his recent $60 million contract extension, showcasing his value within the team’s future plans. Cora expressed confidence in Campbell’s versatility and ability to contribute in various positions.

“I don’t know why we shifted him to left during Spring Training,” Cora said. “He played center; why were we trying to do this?” Campbell has shown promising skills throughout his career, including a standout minor league season where he batted .330 with notable defensive capabilities.

For the Red Sox, a successful doubleheader could not only solidify their winning streak but also serve as a turning point as they seek to improve upon their last season’s performance. The team, previously eliminated from playoff contention, aims to regain traction in the league.

The following lineups for both teams have been announced:

BOSTON RED SOX:
1) Jarren Duran, LF
2) Rafael Devers, DH
3) Alex Bregman, 3B
4) Triston Casas, 1B
5) Trevor Story, SS
6) Wilyer Abreu, RF
7) Kristian Campbell, CF
8) David Hamilton, 2B
9) Connor Wong, C
RHP Richard Fitts (0-1, 4.50 ERA)

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS:
1) Lars Nootbaar, LF
2) Willson Contreras, DH
3) Brendan Donovan, 2B
4) Nolan Arenado, 3B
5) Alec Burleson, 1B
6) Jordan Walker, RF
7) Pedro Pagés, C
8) Victor Scott II, CF
9) Masyn Winn, SS
RHP Andre Pallante (1-0, 3.60 ERA)