Ceddanne Rafaela hit his first major league grand slam, leading the Boston Red Sox to a 4-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics. The Red Sox were initially held hitless for five innings by Athletics rookie starter Jack Perkins, but Connor Wong’s double in the sixth inning broke the drought. Perkins was replaced after walking Willson Contreras, and José Suarez walked Wilyer Abreu, loading the bases for Rafaela’s decisive homer. Curtis Mead, making his Boston debut, left the game after being hit on the wrist. Tyler Soderstrom’s homer gave the Athletics an early lead, but Payton Tolle’s solid pitching helped the Red Sox secure their 18th win in 20 games. The Athletics have struggled, losing 24 of their last 30 games. The game concluded with Aroldis Chapman earning his 25th save. The Red Sox and Athletics are set to face off again with Jake Bennett and Gage Jump as the starting pitchers.
QUESTION: How might the Red Sox’s recent winning streak impact their confidence and performance in upcoming games?
Ceddanne Rafaela’s grand slam sends Red Sox past A’s 4-2 for 18th victory in 20 games
