Red Sox 3, Reds 0
The Boston Red Sox took the win over the Cincinnati Reds 3–0 to take the first game of the season at Great American Ballpark Thursday. The Red Sox notched their third straight Opening Day victory, as Garrett Crochet earned the win.
Red Sox-Reds Game Summary
Both teams were free swingers early on, as two at-bats in the first inning between both teams went more than two pitches. Despite getting multiple runners on in the first and second innings, the Red Sox grounded into double plays in both innings.
The Red Sox threatened once more in the fifth inning, with runners on first and second with one out. However, Andrew Abbott rose to the occasion, striking out Trevor Story and Jarren Duran to get out unscathed.
The Reds had their best scoring chance in the bottom of the sixth inning, forcing the bases loaded with one out. Crochet, however, put an end to those plans, striking out Eugenio Suarez and Spencer Steer to end the frame.
In response, the bottom of the Red Sox lineup made them pay. Marcelo Mayer started off with a pinch-hit double, and a Carlos Narvaez sacrifice bunt got him to third. Ceddanne Rafaela drove a high fastball from Pierce Johnson to center field to take a 1–0 lead.
The Red Sox managed to pour on some run support in the top of the ninth. RBI singles from Trevor Story and Jarren Duran gave Boston a 3–0 cushion before Aroldis Chapman came in and shut the door.
What Went Right for the Bruins
Big Time Players, Big Time Outings
Outside of the sixth inning, Crochet looked just as dominant as he did last season. Six innings, three hits, two walks and eight batters fanned on 80 pitches. On top of that, Roman Anthony went 3-for-4 with a walk.
Insurance Runs
The Red Sox finally converted with runners on base in the ninth inning, after being 1-for-5 through the first eight frames of play. Although it’s likely Chapman didn’t need them, it’s still nice to not have as much stress.
What Went Wrong for the Bruins
Four and Five Spot Struggles
Willson Contreras and Caleb Durbin both struggled mightily throughout the game. A combined 0-for-7 with two walks isn’t exactly what is needed out of the middle of the lineup. Especially with Roman Anthony getting on base four times this contest.
Looking Ahead
The Red Sox and Reds continue the series on Saturday, as they faceoff at 4:10 pm Eastern. Sonny Gray and Brady Singer are the expected pitchers for the Saturday contest.
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