Red Sox Introduce Newcomer Blake Sabol Amid Chicago Series

CHICAGO, IL — The Boston Red Sox will kick off their second road trip of the season against the struggling Chicago White Sox on Friday night, showcasing a fresh face in the lineup. Blake Sabol, called up earlier in the week to replace Connor Wong following a pinky fracture, will make his first start as the Red Sox look to improve their 7-7 record.

Sabol, batting in the No. 8 position, joins a lineup that features Triston Casas in the cleanup spot despite his slow start this season, posting a .170 average in 13 games. Manager Alex Cora is confident in Casas, stating, “We believe he will find his rhythm soon.”

After Wong’s injury, which occurred during a game on Monday, the Red Sox saw Carlos Narváez step in for three games, but now Sabol has the opportunity to capture the spotlight. Sabol has shown promise at the AAA level, hitting .250 with two doubles in six games for the WooSox before being called up.

As Boston prepares for a three-game series against the 2-10 White Sox, Sabol’s addition could be pivotal for turning the tide. The Red Sox have an upper hand historically, having won eight of their last 13 series at Rate Field since 2011.

Leading the charge on the mound is Sean Newcomb, making his third start of the season for the Red Sox. Newcomb has a record of 0-1 this season with a 5.19 ERA, and his performance will be crucial against opposing pitcher Davis Martin, who carries a 5.73 ERA into the matchup.

The Red Sox lineup features: Jarren Duran (LF), Rafael Devers (DH), Alex Bregman (3B), Triston Casas (1B), Trevor Story (SS), Wilyer Abreu (RF), Kristian Campbell (2B), Blake Sabol (C), and Ceddanne Rafaela (CF). The White Sox lineup includes top hitters such as Miguel Vargas at third base and Luis Robert Jr. in centerfield.

The first pitch is set for 7:40 p.m. ET, with the game broadcasted on NESN and radio coverage through WEEI 93.7 FM.