Red Sox and Rays Clash in Crucial Final Series

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Red Sox are set to open a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday. The Rays are not yet eliminated from postseason contention but trail eight games behind with just nine games remaining in the season, making a sweep against the Red Sox crucial to their hopes.

Even if the Rays manage to sweep, they will need assistance from other teams to secure a playoff spot. Despite the standings, the Rays aim to spoil the Red Sox’s chances as both teams seek success in their final matchups of the year.

This season, the Red Sox have dominated the Rays with an 8-2 record against them. Their last encounter was in July when Boston swept Tampa in a four-game series, highlighted by Ceddanne Rafaela’s walk-off home run – a standout moment of the season.

With the Red Sox vying for the last American League Wild Card position, this series bears significant importance. However, their starting pitchers have struggled in September, holding a 5.01 ERA and averaging less than five innings per start.

For this series, the Red Sox will feature Garrett Crochet, Kyle Harrison, and Connelly Early as starting pitchers. Each is left-handed, which may give Boston an edge, considering the Rays have a combined wRC+ of 83 against lefties and the lowest walk rate in baseball.

Among active players, only a handful, such as Yandy Diaz and Junior Caminero, hold a wRC+ above league average against lefties. If Boston’s pitchers effectively navigate these matchups, the Rays may struggle to score.

Additionally, the Red Sox bullpen is packed with left-handed options, although Payton Tolle will likely be unavailable after pitching three innings Thursday. Other options like Chris Murphy and Steven Matz are expected to contribute.

Despite the advantages for the Red Sox, the Rays have their own strengths, particularly against fastballs. Players have excelled at hitting four-seam fastballs, with only one team demonstrating a better ability to hit them this season.

Red Sox manager emphasized the importance of not striking out when hitters are performing at their best. While the first two scheduled starter matchups may not feature high strikeout rates, the situation could change with the Rays’ strong bullpen that includes several pitchers boasting strikeout rates over 30%.

Ultimately, the success of the Red Sox may hinge on their ability to generate runs against a formidable Rays bullpen, known for its defensive presence this September.