The Boston Red Sox broke out of an offensive slump by collecting 12 hits during Tuesday’s 7-4 road victory over the Tampa Bay Rays and will look to remain hot at the plate when the teams wrap up a three-game series on Wednesday night.
Boston entered Tuesday’s matchup with six losses in its last eight games. Perhaps more concerning was the fact that Boston was held to eight runs during its last six losses, including Tampa Bay’s 16-1 victory on Monday.
Alex Bregman had five hits and four RBIs in Tuesday’s win. He had two solo home runs and the first five-hit game of his MLB career.
“It felt good,” Bregman said. “Obviously a lot of hard work in the cage before the game.
“I think everyone did a really good job of being convicted in their approach at the plate. I think guys did a really good job of preparing before the game and I was pleased with the effort all around. It was good to see everybody fired up and look forward to continuing that.”
Boston also received a two-run home run from leadoff hitter Jarren Duran, who reached base three times and scored twice in Tuesday’s win.
Duran’s home run was his fifth extra-base hit this season. He led the team with 83 extra-base hits last season, when he led the majors in doubles (48) and tied for the MLB lead in triples (14).
“We put some good swings,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “There were certain guys that we felt were in between, and (Tuesday) they swung with conviction. I like a lot of things that happened offensively. Obviously, Alex with a big night, but overall we made some adjustments and we executed today.
“(Duran) is getting close. As you know he’s very important to our lineup. He’s the one who gets us going, so hopefully he has another good day tomorrow and then enjoy the off day.”
Jonathan Aranda provided most of the offensive highlights for Tampa Bay during Tuesday’s loss. He had two hits, including his third home run of the season. Aranda is batting .413 with a 1.242 OPS in 46 at-bats this season.
“He’s a really good hitter, and he’s been that way,” Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash said. “I think having confidence has allowed how talented he is to come out a little bit more.”
Tampa Bay will send right-hander Zack Littell (0-3, 6.88 ERA) to the mound Wednesday in an attempt to win the rubber game of the series. Although he doesn’t have good numbers this season, Littell is 2-0 with a 2.75 ERA in four career games (three starts) against the Red Sox. He has 19 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings.
Boston will counter with left-hander Sean Newcomb (0-2, 4.97). In two career appearances against Tampa Bay (both starts), Newcomb is 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA.
-Field Level Media
