Sat Aug 02 21:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Following a trade deadline that left some questioning the Red Sox’s moves, rookie Roman Anthony delivered a walk-off single in the 10th inning against the Astros, lifting the team to a 2-1 victory. The win, propelled by a strong start from Cooper Criswell and fueled by an electric home crowd, defied the pre-game trade deadline negativity and pushed the Red Sox to a season-high nine games above .500, solidifying their Wild Card position. Manager Alex Cora and players expressed confidence in the current team and the additions made, emphasizing their belief in making a postseason run.

**News Article:**

**Rookie Heroics Ignite Red Sox After Trade Deadline Doubts**

BOSTON – Doubts surrounding the Red Sox’s trade deadline acquisitions were quickly silenced Friday night as rookie Roman Anthony delivered a thrilling walk-off single against the Houston Astros, securing a 2-1 victory in 10 innings.

The win, fueled by a packed Fenway Park crowd, pushed the Red Sox to a season-high nine games above .500 (60-51) and firmly into Wild Card contention. Anthony, 21, celebrated his first career game-ending hit, sending a 95.8 mph fastball to the warning track in center field.

“It’s amazing. It’s fun. I want to do it again already,” said Anthony of the electrifying atmosphere.

The victory came after a day of criticism following Thursday’s trade deadline, with some questioning whether the additions of starter Dustin May and reliever Steven Matz were enough. However, manager Alex Cora expressed confidence in the team and the new additions. “Yeah, we’ve got a good baseball team,” said Cora. “We feel like we can compete with anybody, and we’ve got a real shot to win the division.”

Cooper Criswell, recalled from Triple-A Worcester just days ago, delivered a stellar performance, matching Astros’ Hunter Brown pitch-for-pitch over seven innings.

The Red Sox, now 35-21 at home, are riding a wave of momentum, going 12-2 since June 30. As they embark on a 51-game march towards a potential playoff berth, the team and their manager believe they are built for success.

“I think the team is a lot different than the last three [years],” said Cora. “We’re more complete, we’ve pitched better, our bullpen is in a great place.”

With a renewed sense of confidence and a roaring fanbase behind them, the Red Sox are looking to make this season something special.

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