Red Sox Sweep Nationals with 6-4 Victory
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Boston Red Sox (46-45) concluded a successful sweep of the struggling Washington Nationals with a 6-4 win Sunday, marking their return to above .500. The game featured mixed performances from players, particularly pitcher Garrett Crochet, who earned the win despite an uncharacteristic outing.
Rookie Shinnosuke Ogasawara’s MLB debut for the Nationals did not go as planned, as the Red Sox unleashed a swift offensive attack. Nate Eaton’s single and stolen base paved the way for Roman Anthony’s RBI single, followed by Rob Refsnyder’s double and a two-run homer from Trevor Story, quickly building a 4-0 lead.
Although Crochet managed to limit the damage to two runs over five innings, he struggled with efficiency, allowing nine hits and two walks. Despite the traffic on the bases, Crochet struck out seven, including a pivotal third-inning strikeout against the Nationals’ slugger James Wood.
Defensive woes plagued the Red Sox, notably outfielder Jarren Duran, who mishandled a line drive that led to a Washington run.
Manager Alex Cora strategically utilized his bullpen in the late innings, bringing in Aroldis Chapman, who retired the side efficiently. Jordan Hicks then recorded his first save for Boston, despite allowing a two-out run.
Ceddanne Rafaela showcased his power, hitting a homer and a double, finishing the series with five extra-base hits.
In three games against a Nationals team now 16 games under .500, the Red Sox outscored their foes 27-9. Next, they will face the worst team in baseball, the Colorado Rockies, starting Monday at Fenway Park.
The upcoming series promises to be pivotal as the Red Sox aim to capitalize on their recent momentum.
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