Baltimore, Maryland (AP) – Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson each hit home runs as the Baltimore Orioles defeated the Boston Red Sox 4-2 on Sunday to split their four-game series. Albert Suárez continued his streak of shutout starts.
After the trade deadline, Suárez (6-4) made a temporary comeback to the bullpen, but the Orioles now require him to be in the rotation because to an injury to Grayson Rodriguez. After losing the first two starts regardless, he has made three straight starts with a perfect 17 2/3 innings pitched without giving up a run. Baltimore won this one even though they were outhit 11-3.
In six innings, Suárez gave up seven hits, struck out six, and did not allow a walk. After the first two batters reached base in the fourth, he fanned Tyler O’Neill on a full count. Two more batters reached in the sixth, but the 34-year-old right-hander struck out three that inning.
Manager of the Orioles Brandon Hyde described him as “really mature and professional.” “His extensive experience both domestically and abroad allows him to proceed to the next pitch with remarkable ease.”
After three relievers, the game was over. In the eighth inning, with a three-run advantage, Seranthony Domínguez entered the game and retired Romy Gonzalez on a popup with the bases loaded. Despite giving up a one-out home run to Rob Refsnyder in the ninth inning, he managed to record his third save since joining the Orioles prior to the trade deadline.
When the Orioles played Detroit later on Sunday, they were only half a game behind the AL East-leading New York Yankees. Boston’s deficit over Kansas City for the last American League wild card slot has grown to 3 1/2 games.
Manager of the Red Sox Alex Cora stated, “Every game is a big one for us.” We’re a strong team. We are pursuing our prey.
After giving up 26 runs in 24 innings during his previous five starts, Kutter Crawford (8-10) gave up three runs and two hits in 5 1/3 innings, which was a positive stride. The scoring began with a solo home run by Rutschman. Then, in the sixth, Baltimore had men on first and second with no one out.
Ryan O’Hearn grounded out to first, but shortstop Ceddanne Rafaela misthrew to first base, allowing a run to score, as the Red Sox attempted to turn a double play.
Subsequently, Henderson welcomed Bailey Horn with his 33rd home run of the year.
In the eighth, Rafaela singled with RBI.