Red Sox pitching staff implodes in 9-2 loss to the Padres in series opener

Mike Masala

Red Sox pitching staff implodes in 9-2 loss to the Padres in series opener image

After a day off, the Boston Red Sox welcomed the San Diego Padres to Fenway Park for the first of three games on Friday, and Alex Cora's squad was handed a 9-2 loss.

Boston's pitching was horrendous in this one, as Nick Pivetta allowed five runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out just four over his four innings. He was removed in the top of the fifth after allowing five straight batters to reach base.

Greg Weissert then entered the game with the bases and allowed hits to the next four batters and four runs to score.

Chase Anderson went the final four innings, giving up just one hit and two walks.

The offense wasn't much better. While they only struck out six times, they couldn't push runs across. Their two runs came from a Connor Wong (1-for-3) single and a Rafael Devers (1-for-2) solo home run.

This loss drops Boston to 43-38 on the season and 19-22 at Fenway Park. The two teams will meet again on Saturday at 4:10 p.m. ET.

Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala