Recap
The second inning showcased what Sox fans have been waiting for all season: hits in the air, a stolen base, a couple of walks, everyone keeping the line moving. The Sox sent nine batters to the plate and scored three runs, breaking the spell and waking us, and themselves, from the stupor of this heavy 2026 season.
But that was nothing compared to what was to come: another three-run inning in the fifth, courtesy of a three-run double by Connor Wong.
But wait, there’s more! Wong’s hit was the play of
the game until the ninth inning—which was a ten-hit, ten-run inning, by the way—highlighted by a grand slam by Andruw Monasterio. It was glorious. Both Ceddanne Rafaela and Willson Contreras had two singles and two bigger hits (a triple and homer, respectively) and crossed the plate twice in the inning. The Orioles eventually brought in a position player to pitch but the damage was done well before that.
With runners in scoring position, the Sox were 8-15 today.
There were a number of firsts today, individually and for the team:
- First home run of the season for Caleb Durbin
- First Red Sox triple of the season by Ceddanne Rafaela
- First Red Sox grand slam of the season, courtesy of Andruw Monasterio
It was a huge game with good vibes to spare.
Studs
Garrett Crochet
This is the pitcher we know and love. He was dominant and in control the whole way. 6.0 IP, 7 SO, 3H, 2 BB.
Small Ball
Five walks, capitalizing on errors, four doubles, and two stolen bases. The hitters kept the line moving.
Big Offense
The Sox scored runs with big hits too. Wong’s double, Rafaela’s triple, homers by Durbin and Contreras, and of course Monasterio’s slam.
Duds
Pelvic Thrust Hit Celebration
I will keep saying this until it is dead and gone. Some Sox hitters are still using it and yuck.
Play of the Game
How about that? Andruw Monasterio, hired for his defense, not his hitting, whales a grand slam.
