Sun Sep 14 23:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:
**Summary:**
The Boston Red Sox are struggling, having lost the first two games of their weekend series against the New York Yankees. This places them only two games ahead of the Texas Rangers for the final American League wild-card spot. Despite adjusting their lineup to counter the Yankees’ left-handed pitcher, the Red Sox offense couldn’t produce, and their starting pitcher, Brayan Bello, had a poor outing. Manager Alex Cora is urging the team to focus on improving their current play rather than thinking about the playoffs. Boston will face the Yankees in the series finale on Sunday, with Garrett Crochet pitching against Will Warren. The Red Sox are slumping at home and with runners in scoring position, while the Yankees are surging on the road.
**News Article:**
**Red Sox Wild Card Hopes Fading After Yankees Sweep Threatens Playoff Spot**
**BOSTON –** The Boston Red Sox are teetering on the edge of playoff contention after dropping the first two games of their crucial weekend series against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park. The losses have shrunk their lead for the final American League wild-card spot to a mere two games over the surging Texas Rangers.
Saturday’s game saw the Red Sox attempt to neutralize Yankees’ left-handed starter Max Fried by stacking their lineup with right-handed and switch hitters. However, the strategy backfired as Red Sox starter Brayan Bello struggled, surrendering four runs on five hits in just five innings.
“I think we should stop talking about October to be honest with you,” said Red Sox manager Alex Cora, visibly frustrated with his team’s performance. “There’s a lot of stuff going on and we have to play better. I’m not saying we’re in a bad spot, but I think we have to wait to see if October is part of this.”
The Red Sox, who have lost three straight, will look to salvage the series and regain some momentum in Sunday night’s finale against the Yankees. Left-hander Garrett Crochet (15-5, 2.57 ERA) will take the mound for Boston, while the Yankees will counter with right-hander Will Warren (8-6, 4.22 ERA).
Adding to the Red Sox woes, the team is struggling at home, losing eight of their last 11 games at Fenway, and are batting a paltry .096 with runners in scoring position over their last three contests. Conversely, the Yankees are on a tear on the road, going 13-2 in their last 15 games away from home.
[Include probable lineups here – same as in the original text]
Sunday’s game represents a critical juncture for the Red Sox as they fight to stay in the playoff picture. A loss would further jeopardize their chances and intensify the pressure heading into a three-game homestand against the Oakland Athletics after Monday’s day off.
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