UPDATE: In a thrilling matchup, Brandon Lowe powered the Tampa Bay Rays to a decisive 7-3 victory over the Boston Red Sox on September 24, 2023, avoiding a series sweep. Lowe’s 30th home run of the season bolstered the Rays, snapping their eight-game losing streak against Boston.
The victory is crucial for the Rays (76-80), who are fighting to finish the season strong. Despite the loss, the Red Sox (85-71) maintain a narrow one-game lead in the race for the AL’s second wild card, as both Cleveland and Houston also fell in their games.
Playing at Steinbrenner Field due to damage from Hurricane Milton, the Rays secured their ninth consecutive winning record at home, finishing with a 41-40 record. Fans witnessed a sellout crowd of 10,046, contributing to a total season attendance of 786,750.
The game turned in favor of the Rays early, capitalizing on rookie Connelly Early‘s shaky first inning. Chandler Simpson led off with a single, followed by walks from Yandy Diaz and Junior Caminero. Christopher Morel hit a two-run double, and an error from Boston added a third run, putting Tampa Bay ahead early.
Lowe provided additional security in the seventh inning with his homer off Steven Matz, marking the second time in his career he has reached 30 home runs. The Rays then exploded for four more runs in the eighth inning against Boston rookie Payton Tolle, sealing the game.
Boston’s aggressive baserunning, which had previously fueled rallies, backfired in this contest. Romy Gonzalez was thrown out at home trying to score from first base, and Jarren Duran was picked off first after a walk, highlighting critical errors that hindered their efforts. The Red Sox went 4 for 11 with runners in scoring position and struck out a staggering 14 times.
Rays relief pitcher Garrett Cleavinger (2-6) earned the win with a scoreless inning, while Early (1-1) suffered the loss, allowing three runs on three hits.
“We needed this win to keep our spirits up,” said Lowe after the game.
Looking ahead, the Rays are set to face Ryan Pepiot (11-11) against the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, while the Red Sox will have Lucas Giolito (10-4, 3.46 ERA) on the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays.
This victory not only boosts the morale of the Rays but also sets the stage for an exciting finish to the season as they strive for redemption and continued competition.
