Wed Sep 18 03:00:23 UTC 2024: ## Red Sox Sink Below .500 as Rays Explode for 8-3 Win
**Tampa Bay, FL** – The Boston Red Sox fell below .500 for the first time since June 11th after suffering an 8-3 defeat at the hands of the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night. The loss was fueled by a disappointing pitching performance from Nick Pivetta, who allowed three home runs and left the game early with a shoulder cramp.
Pivetta, who had been pitching well recently, surrendered his season-high in home runs, allowing the Rays to rack up five runs in the fourth and fifth innings. The Red Sox were able to score early thanks to a two-run home run from Triston Casas, but the Rays offense proved too powerful.
The Red Sox pitching woes continued beyond Pivetta’s departure, as reliever Bailey Horn allowed two more runs in the sixth inning. The team’s bats, while hitting the ball hard, failed to overcome the pitching struggles.
The loss leaves the Red Sox at 75-76, while the Rays improved to 74-77. The Red Sox are now in third place in the AL East, with their playoff chances hanging in the balance.
Manager Alex Cora expressed frustration with the team’s recent struggles, noting the team’s inability to capitalize on opportunities and the inconsistent bullpen performance. He did express confidence in Pivetta’s ability to recover from the shoulder issue.
The Red Sox will look to rebound in the upcoming series against the Rays, facing a crucial challenge with five of their remaining 11 games against their division rivals.
First Piper 