The Boston Red Sox secured their inaugural series victory since the All-Star break in dramatic fashion as Rafael Devers hammered a double in the bottom of the 10th inning to drive in Tyler O’Neill, clinching a thrilling 3-2 triumph at Fenway Park on Wednesday night.
In the ninth inning, the Red Sox faced a tense moment when Kenley Jansen appeared uneasy during an intense eight-pitch showdown with Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena.
Following a walk to Arozarena, Jansen received a visit on the mound from the team trainer, manager Alex Cora, and catcher Danny Jansen. Despite discomfort, he continued and induced designated hitter Cal Raleigh to ground out to first base.
Cora provided a brief update on Jansen after the game, stating, “He slipped on one of his pitches. He felt it in his lower back. We’ll assess his condition by Friday.”
Jansen has maintained a 3.05 ERA over 38 1/3 innings this season with 43 strikeouts and 20 saves for Boston. The Red Sox find themselves in the midst of a tight American League wild-card race alongside the New York Yankees, Minnesota Twins, and Kansas City Royals.
Boston resumes play on Friday night against the Rangers at Globe Life Field, commencing a pivotal three-game series in Texas. The Rangers, trailing by eight games and five games below .500, represent a crucial opportunity for the Red Sox to narrow the gap. First pitch is scheduled for 8:05 p.m. ET, with live coverage, including an hour of pregame analysis, airing on NESN.