On Wednesday, the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets matched up for their series finale at Citi Field, and Alex Cora's club was handed an 8-3 loss, their fifth in a row, and a series sweep.
Boston's pitching started off horrible, as Tanner Houck gave up four runs on a Jesse Winker grand slam in the first inning, but he settled in nicely to go six innings without giving up another run. At one point, he even retired 13 in a row.
Zack Kelly and Justin Slaten followed up with scoreless innings, but Kenley Jansen allowed a run on a hit and three walks in the ninth before Cora replaced him with Rich Hill, who allowed all three of his inherited runners to score. Greg Weissert recorded the final out of the eighth inning when Hill was lifted.
The Red Sox's offense wasn't much better. They drove in just three runs on nine hits and four walks while striking out seven times. Jarren Duran (2-for-4) drove in one run on a ground-rule double while Rafael Devers (0-for-3) and Wilyer Abreu (0-for-1) drove in one each on sacrifice flies.
Boston had frustrating results in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings as all three frames ended with inning-ending double plays.
This loss brings the Red Sox record to an even 70-70 on the season and 39-32 away from Fenway Park. Now, they'll have a day off on Thursday before starting a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox back at home.
MORE RED SOX NEWS
Red Sox now have No. 2 prospect in baseball
Alex Cora tries to explain pulling pitcher with perfect game
Red Sox’s manager makes mind-boggling decision vs. Tigers
Red Sox September call-ups aren't too exciting
