The Boston Red Sox and Kansas City Royals both played doubleheaders on Monday in an effort to gain ground in the competitive American League Wild Card race. The Red Sox ended up being swept, losing the suspended game from June 26 by a score of 4-1 and dropping the nightcap 7-3. Despite a strong performance by Jarren Duran, who hit a two-run home run and two doubles, the Red Sox struggled with errors and pitching.
The Red Sox now find themselves 6.5 games behind the Royals in the standings after Kansas City swept their doubleheader, leaving Boston in a tough position as they try to make a playoff push. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged that the team needs to play better, as they are currently in a slump with five losses in four days.
The Red Sox made some strategic pitching decisions during the doubleheader, including using Zack Kelly for three innings, a career high for the reliever. Despite some solid performances, the Red Sox ultimately fell short against the Blue Jays, as Brad Keller struggled on the mound.
Despite the disappointing doubleheader, the Red Sox remain optimistic and determined to turn things around. They have 31 games left in the season and are not giving up hope of making a late playoff push. Cooper Criswell is set to start the next game for the Red Sox against Toronto, as they look to bounce back from their recent losses and keep their postseason hopes alive.
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