The Boston Red Sox will wrap up their three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park, with the matchup tied at one game apiece.
After dropping the series opener, Boston responded with a strong performance on Saturday, shutting out Pittsburgh 4-0 to even things up. However, the Red Sox were unable to carry that momentum into Sunday, ultimately falling 8-3.
One notable lineup change came before the finale, as veteran catcher Willson Contreras was removed from the starting lineup.
Red Sox Make Lineup Adjustment With Willson Contreras
Contreras had been included in Boston’s initial lineup card for Sunday but was later taken out before first pitch.
The four-time All-Star is currently in his first season with the Red Sox after previous stints with the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals. The 34-year-old has been one of Boston’s more productive offensive additions, hitting .278 with 108 hits, 24 home runs, 72 RBIs, 60 runs scored, and three stolen bases through 113 games.
Before joining Boston, Contreras spent 11 seasons in the majors and played a key role in helping the Cubs capture the 2016 World Series championship.
Despite a quiet showing in Saturday’s win over Pittsburgh, where he recorded a walk and two strikeouts, Contreras has remained an important part of the Red Sox lineup throughout the season.
Red Sox Fighting for Playoff Position
Boston entered Sunday sitting third in the American League East with a 66-57 record through 123 games.
The Red Sox have experienced some recent inconsistency, going 4-6 over their last 10 games, though they have remained strong away from Fenway Park with a 37-26 road record.
After finishing the series in Pittsburgh, Boston will return home for a matchup against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday night at Fenway Park.
The Red Sox remain firmly in the postseason picture, currently occupying one of the three American League Wild Card spots as they push toward October baseball.