2022 Boston Red Sox season

October

• On October 25, the team announced the dismissal of first base coach Tom Goodwin.^[23]
• On October 30, former Red Sox second baseman and longtime color commentator Jerry Remy died at age 68.^[24]

November

• On November 1, it was reported that hitting coach Tim Hyers declined the team's offer for 2022 and would not continue in his role.^[25]
• On November 3, five players elected to become free agents: Adam Ottavino, Hansel Robles, Eduardo Rodríguez, Danny Santana, and Travis Shaw.^[26]
• On November 4, Kyle Schwarber declined his side of a mutual option for 2022 and became a free agent.^[27]
• On November 5, the team claimed outfielder Tim Locastro off of waivers from the New York Yankees.^[28]
• On November 7, the team declined to exercise their 2022 options on Martín Pérez and Garrett Richards, making them free agents.^[29] The same day, the team did exercise its option on Christian Vázquez, and J. D. Martinez chose not to exercise his opt-out clause; both remain under contract with the team for the 2022 season.^[29] The team also issued a qualifying offer ($18.4 million for one year) to Eduardo Rodríguez, starting a 10-day window within which he could accept that offer, reach other contract terms with the team, or remain a free agent.^[29]
• On November 14, it was reported that Rodríguez declined the qualifying offer.^[30] He subsequently signed with the Detroit Tigers.^[31]
• On November 19, in advance of the Rule 5 draft, the Red Sox added four players their 40-man roster: infielder Jeter Downs and pitchers Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, and Josh Winckowski.^[32]
• On November 22, the ballot for the National Baseball Hall of Fame class of 2022 was announced.^[33] Multiple players who were with the Red Sox during their MLB careers were included: Curt Schilling (10th ballot, with Red Sox 2004–2007), Roger Clemens (10th, 1984–1996), Billy Wagner (7th, 2009), Manny Ramirez (6th, 2001–2008), Carl Crawford (1st, 2011–2012), David Ortiz (1st, 2003–2016), Jonathan Papelbon (1st, 2005–2011), Jake Peavy (1st, 2013–2014), and A. J. Pierzynski (1st, 2014).
• On November 27, the team signed pitcher Michael Wacha to a one-year contract, reportedly worth $7 million.^[34]
• On November 30, the team non-tendered Locastro, making him a free agent,^[35] and agreed to terms with pitcher Ryan Brasier on a one-year contract, reportedly worth $1.4 million.^[36]

December

• On December 1, the team:
  • Signed free agent pitchers Rich Hill and James Paxton.^[37]
  • Traded Hunter Renfroe to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for Jackie Bradley Jr. and minor-league infielders David Hamilton and Alex Binelas.^[38]
  • Agreed to terms with backup catcher Kevin Plawecki on a one-year contract for 2022, reportedly worth $2.25 million.^[39]
• On December 2, Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred announced a lockout of players, following expiration of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA).^[40]

• On December 13, the team named Chad Tracy manager of the Worcester Red Sox.^[41]
• On December 20, the team named its coaching staff for the 2022 season.^[42] Existing coaches Ramón Vázquez and Peter Fatse were named the new first base coach and hitting coach, respectively. Luis Ortiz and Ben Rosenthal were added to the staff as assistant hitting coaches. Reed Gragnani was added to the staff as assistant hitting coordinator, and Andy Fox was added to the staff as major league field coordinator. Michael Brenly, who had been a bullpen catcher, was promoted to staff assistant.

January

• On January 25, it was announced that David Ortiz, who played for the Red Sox from 2003 to 2016, was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, via 2022 Baseball Hall of Fame balloting.^[43]

February

• On February 18, MLB announced that the start of spring training would be delayed until at least March 5, due to the ongoing lockout.^[44]

March

• On March 1, with the lockout still unresolved, Commissioner Manfred announced that the regular season would not start on March 31 as originally planned; with the cancelation of the first two series of the season, teams were expected to play no more than 156 games.^[45]
• On March 10, MLB and the MLBPA reached tentative agreement on a new five-year collective bargaining agreement, which was officially ratified later that day.^[46] A full 162-game season was salvaged, with a delay of Opening Day to April 7, with originally cancelled games to be made up during the season.^[47]
• On March 6, the team signed pitchers Silvino Bracho and Darin Gillies to minor-league contracts with invitations to spring training.^[48]
• On March 11, the team signed pitcher Thomas Pannone to a minor-league contract.^[48]
• On March 15, the team signed pitcher Matt Strahm to a one-year contract.^[48] The team also placed Paxton on the 60-day injured list, as he continued his recovery from Tommy John surgery.^[48]
• On March 16, the team signed pitcher Jake Diekman to a two-year contract.^[48] The team also signed catcher Deivy Grullón to a minor-league contract.^[48]
• On March 19, the team re-signed relief pitcher Hansel Robles to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training.^[49][48]
• On March 22, the team came to agreement with five players on one-year contracts, thus avoiding arbitration: Christian Arroyo, Rafael Devers, Nick Pivetta, Josh Taylor, and Alex Verdugo.^[50] The team also claimed Kyle Tyler off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels; Hudson Potts was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.^[51]
• On March 23, the team announced the signing of infielder Trevor Story to a six-year contract.^[52] Jeisson Rosario was designated for assignment in a corresponding move;^[48] he was later claimed off of waivers by the New York Yankees.^[53]
• On March 24, the team claimed pitcher Ralph Garza Jr. off waivers from the Minnesota Twins.^[48] Kyle Tyler was designated for assignment in a corresponding move; he was later claimed off of waivers by the San Diego Padres.^[48]
• On March 30, the team signed pitcher Dan Altavilla, who underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2021.^[54][48]

April

• On April 4, the team placed pitcher Chris Sale on the 60-day injured list with a right rib stress fracture.^[55] In a corresponding move, the team added pitcher Tyler Danish to the 40-man roster.^[55]
• On April 7, the team designated Ralph Garza Jr. for assignment; he was claimed off of waivers by the Tampa Bay Rays.^[55] The team also selected the contracts of Hansel Robles and Travis Shaw from the Worcester Red Sox the bring the roster size to 28 players,^[55] as allowed by MLB to begin the 2022 season.

April

April 8–April 10, at New York Yankees

Rain caused Boston's first game to be postponed from April 7 to April 8. Nathan Eovaldi started the opener, as he had done the prior two seasons, lasting five innings while allowing three runs on five hits and striking out seven batters. The Red Sox scored three runs in the top of the first inning, and the Yankees responded with two runs in the bottom of the inning, and later tied the game with a run in the bottom of the fourth. With the score tied at 4–4 after nine innings, the teams each scored a single run in the 10th inning, and New York won the game with a run in the bottom of the 11th inning. Kutter Crawford took the loss; Rafael Devers homered. New York won the second game of the series, 4–2. Boston starter Nick Pivetta took the loss after allowing four runs on four hits in 5+2⁄3 innings; Alex Verdugo homered. The Red Sox won the third and final game of the series, 4–3, although they were out-hit by the Yankees, 11–5. Starter Tanner Houck went 3+1⁄3 innings, allowing three runs on three hits. Crawford, the second of five relievers, got the win; Jake Diekman pitched the ninth inning and got the save. Bobby Dalbec homered.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (11–13 runs)

April 11–April 13, at Detroit Tigers

The Red Sox lost the opener of a three-game series in Detroit, 3–1. Tied 1–1 entering the bottom of the eighth inning, reliever Ryan Brasier allowed a two-run home run to Javier Báez. Austin Davis, who had allowed a single to the prior batter, took the loss. Starter Michael Wacha allowed one run on two hits in 4+1⁄3 innings in his Red Sox debut. Boston's lone run came on a J. D. Martinez homer in the fifth inning. Boston won the second game of the series, 5–3. Starter Rich Hill allowed all three Tiger runs in 4+1⁄3 innings on five hits. Rafael Devers went 3-for-5 with two RBIs and scored two runs. Reliever Garrett Whitlock pitched the sixth through ninth innings without allowing a hit and earned the win. Boston won the final game of the series, 9–7. After a six-run fourth inning, the Red Sox had a 6–1 lead, then led 9–2 after the top of the seventh before Detroit scored five late runs. Starter Nathan Eovaldi went five innings, allowing two runs on four hits, and earned the win. Hansel Robles recorded the final four outs to earn the save. Kiké Hernández homered.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (15–13 runs)

April 15–April 18, vs. Minnesota Twins

Boston's home opener, the first contest of a four-game series against Minnesota, was held on Jackie Robinson Day. The Twins jumped out to an early 4–1 lead after two innings, extended to 6–1 after the fifth, en route to an 8–4 win over the Red Sox. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed four runs on five hits in two innings, taking the loss. Alex Verdugo and Rafael Devers homered. The Red Sox recorded their first shutout win of the season, 4–0, in the series' second game. Starter Tanner Houck went 5+2⁄3 innings while allowing just two hits and earned the win. Verdugo and Xander Bogaerts both hit two-run homers. Boston won the third game of the series, 8–1, with six runs coming in the eighth inning. Starter Michael Wacha held the Twins to a single hit in five innings, but left with the game scoreless and received a no decision. Reliever Matt Strahm got the win. Bogaerts went 3-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. The final game of the series was held the same day as the 2022 Boston Marathon. Minnesota split the series with an 8–3 win, giving Boston starter Rich Hill the loss. Bogaerts had three hits and Christian Vázquez homered.

Red Sox split the series 2–2 (19–17 runs)

April 19–April 21, vs. Toronto Blue Jays

In the opener of a three-game home series, the Red Sox defeated the Blue Jays, 2–1, despite being outhit, 8–3. Starter Nathan Eovaldi went 4+2⁄3 innings and had a no decision. Hansel Robles got the win in relief, and Garrett Whitlock earned a save. Prior to the second game of the series, the team honored former player and longtime broadcaster Jerry Remy, who died in October 2021.^[64] Boston took an early 1–0 lead in the game, but Toronto scored five runs in the second inning, en route to a 6–1 win. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss, falling to 0–3 on the season. In the third game of the series, the Red Sox rallied for two runs in the ninth inning, but fell to the Blue Jays, 3–2. Starter Tanner Houck took the loss. Xander Bogaerts had three hits and an RBI.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (5–10 runs)

April 22–April 24, at Tampa Bay Rays

Boston won the opener of a three-game series in Tampa Bay, 4–3. Matt Barnes earned his first save of the season by recording the final out with the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth inning. Starter Michael Wacha held the Rays to two runs on three hits in five innings and earned the win. Xander Bogaerts went 3-for-4 and scored twice; Rafael Devers hit his third home run of the season. Boston was unable to get a hit in the first nine innings of the series' second game, but neither team was able to score, sending it to extra innings. Boston scored twice in the top of the tenth inning, with Bobby Dalbec driving in one run with a triple. In the bottom of the tenth, Taylor Walls of the Rays reached base on a two-out error by Trevor Story, with Story's throw eluding first baseman Dalbec. Kevin Kiermaier then hit a walk-off home run off of Hansel Robles to give Tampa Bay a 3–2 win. In the final game of the series, the Red Sox took an early 2–0 lead, but the Rays scored five unanswered runs for a 5–2 win. Starter Rich Hill held the Rays scoreless through four innings. In the bottom of the fifth, reliever Phillips Valdéz loaded the bases via two hit batsmen and a walk; all three runners subsequently scored, and Valdéz took the loss.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (8–11 runs)

April 25–April 28, at Toronto Blue Jays

Prior to the series in Toronto, the team placed pitchers Kutter Crawford and Tanner Houck on the COVID restricted list, in consideration of Canadian vaccination requirements.^[65] Their roster spots were filled by Tyler Danish and John Schreiber. Boston lost the first game of the four-game series, 6–2. Trailing 2–0 entering the eighth inning, the Red Sox tied the game, 2–2. In the bottom of the inning, the Blue Jay put two runners on base off of Matt Strahm; fellow reliever Tyler Danish allowed another baserunner, then surrendered a grand slam to Bo Bichette. In the second game of the series, Boston trailed entering the eighth inning, 2–1, then scored four runs to take a 5–2 lead. With that same score in the bottom of the ninth, Toronto scored three runs off of Jake Diekman via two doubles and a home run, sending the game into extra innings. After the Red Sox were unable to score in the top of the tenth, the Blue Jays pushed across a run in the bottom of the inning for a 6–5 win. Starter Nick Pivetta went 4+2⁄3 innings and had a no decision; Matt Barnes took the loss. The Red Sox broke their four-game losing streak with a 7–1 win in the third game of the series. Manager Alex Cora returned to the team after missing the prior six games due to COVID.^[66] Starter Michael Wacha limited Toronto to one run on four hits in six innings and earned the win. Xander Bogaerts was 4-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. Toronto won the final game of the series, 1–0. The only run of the game came in the bottom of the second inning, following a fielding error by Christian Arroyo. Offensively, the Red Sox were limited to four hits. Starter Garrett Whitlock took the loss.

Red Sox lost the series 1–3 (14–14 runs)

April 29–April 30, at Baltimore Orioles

Boston opened a three-game series in Baltimore with a 3–1 win. Starter Rich Hill allowed no runs on one hit in four innings. He was relieved by Tanner Houck, who allowed no runs on two hits in three innings and earned the win. Matt Strahm recorded a save and Christian Arroyo homered. The Orioles won the second game of the series, 2–1, in 10 innings. Boston scored in the top of the first inning, and maintained a 1–0 lead until Baltimore tied the game in the bottom of the eighth. In extra innings, the Red Sox were unable to score in the top of the 10th, and the Orioles scored the winning run in the bottom of the inning aided by a throwing error by reliever Hirokazu Sawamura, who took the loss. Starter Nathan Eovaldi held the Orioles to no runs on three hits in seven innings while striking out eight batters. The Red Sox ended April with a record of 9–13,^[67] in fourth place in the American League East, 6+1⁄2 games behind the division-leading Yankees.

May

The Red Sox entered May in fourth place in the American League East with a record of 9–13, having just split the first two games of a three-game series in Baltimore.

May 1, at Baltimore Orioles (cont'd)

The Orioles won the final game of the series, 9–5, in a game that included a two-hour rain delay. After four scoreless innings, the Red Sox scored once in the top of the fifth, but then gave up nine total runs in the Orioles' next two half-innings. J. D. Martinez hit a grand slam in the ninth inning, but Boston was unable to rally further. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss and fell to 0–4 on the season. Backup catcher Kevin Plawecki pitched the eighth inning for Boston.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (9–12 runs)

May 3–May 5, vs. Los Angeles Angels

Boston opened a three-game home series against the Angels with a 4–0 win. Rafael Devers and J. D. Martinez both homered, and starter Michael Wacha held Los Angeles to three hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. The second game of the series went into extra innings, with the Angels winning, 10–5. The Red Sox took a 4–3 lead in the bottom of the eighth inning, via a Xander Bogaerts home run. The Angels tied the game in the top of the ninth on two walks and a single. In the top of the tenth, Los Angeles scored six runs, all with two outs, while Boston was held to one run in the bottom of the inning. Starter Garrett Whitlock held the Angels to two runs on two hits in five innings, while Jake Diekman was charged with a blown save and Matt Barnes took the loss. The final game of the series was scoreless until the seventh inning, and ended as an 8–0 shutout for Los Angeles. Starter Rich Hill allowed only a single hit in five innings; reliever Tanner Houck was charged with seven runs in 2+1⁄3 innings and took the loss.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (9–18 runs)

May 6–May 8, vs. Chicago White Sox

The opener of a three-game home series saw the Red Sox fall to the White Sox, 4–2. Starter Nathan Eovaldi took the loss after allowing three runs on six hits in five innings. The White Sox won the second game of the series, 3–1 in 10 innings. Boston took a 1–0 lead in the fifth inning, which held until Chicago scored the tying run in the top of the ninth. In the bottom of the ninth, the Red Sox had runners on second and third with one out, but were unable to score. After the White Sox scored twice in the top of the tenth, the Red Sox had three consecutive ground outs in the bottom of the inning. Starter Nick Pivetta held Chicago to five hits and no runs in six innings; reliever Matt Barnes took the loss. The White Sox completed the sweep with a 3–2 win in the final game of the series, which was featured on MLB Sunday Leadoff. All of Chicago's runs came in the third inning off of starter Tanner Houck, who took the loss. Trailing by a run entering the bottom of the ninth, J. D. Martinez hit a leadoff double, but each of the next three batters made an out.

Red Sox lost the series 0–3 (5–10 runs)

May 10–May 11, at Atlanta Braves

Boston snapped their five-game losing streak with a 9–4 win over Atlanta in the opener of a two-game road series. The Red Sox scored six runs in the second inning, four via a Rafael Devers grand slam. Starter Garrett Whitlock allowed three runs on four hits in three innings; he was relieved by Tyler Danish who pitched two scoreless innings and got the win. John Schreiber pitched the final two innings, retiring all six batters he faced, and earned a save. The Braves won the second game of the series, 5–3. Boston went out to an early 3–0 lead through the middle of the third inning, with Atlanta tying the game in the bottom of that inning. The Red Sox nearly took a 4–3 lead in the bottom of the sixth, when Kevin Plawecki worked a full count with the bases loaded; on what appeared to be ball four, Plawecki was called out on strikes.^[68] Plawecki and manager Alex Cora were subsequently ejected for arguing the call.^[68] The Braves won the game on a two-run walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth by Orlando Arcia off of Ryan Brasier.

Red Sox split the series 1–1 (12–9 runs)

May 13–May 15, at Texas Rangers

The Red Sox opened a three-game series at Globe Life Field with a 7–1 win; eight different Boston batters had hits. Starting pitcher Nick Pivetta went seven innings and earned his first win of the season. Boston collected 14 hits in the second game of the series and outscored Texas, 11–3. Starter Rich Hill went six innings at got the win. J. D. Martinez and Rafael Devers each homered. The Rangers avoided a sweep by winning the third game of the series, 7–1. Devers drove in Boston's only run. The Red Sox used Austin Davis as an opener; he did not allow a hit in two innings. Ryan Brasier, the third of four total pitchers for Boston, took the loss after allowing three runs on four hits in the sixth inning.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (19–11 runs)

May 16–May 18, vs. Houston Astros

In the opener of a three-game home series, Boston defeated Houston, 6–3. Starter Garrett Whitlock allowed two runs on three hits in five innings and received a no decision. Matt Strahm, the fourth of five relievers, got the win, while Hansel Robles earned a save. The game included a 98-minute rain delay. Trevor Story and Xander Bogaerts each homered. The second game of the series was won by the Astros, 13–4, powered by a nine-run second inning. Starter Nathan Eovaldi gave up five home runs in the inning, tying a major-league record;^[69] he was charged with six earned runs in 1+2⁄3 innings of work and took the loss. The Red Sox collected 13 hits, with Rafael Devers and J. D. Martinez each homering. Boston won the final game of the series, 5–1, with starter Nick Pivetta pitching a complete game and allowing just two hits. It was the first complete game by a Red Sox pitcher since Chris Sale on June 5, 2019.^[70]

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (15–17 runs)

May 19–May 22, vs. Seattle Mariners

The Red Sox began a four-game home series against the Mariners with a 12–6 win. Starter Rich Hill left after allowing four runs in two innings; Tanner Houck then pitched four scoreless innings and earned the win. Trevor Story hit three home runs and had seven RBIs. Story joined Bobby Doerr and Dustin Pedroia as the only Red Sox second basemen to hit three home runs in a single game.^[71] Boston won the second game of the series, 7–3, powered by a grand slam by Story. Jackie Bradley Jr. also homered. Starter Michael Wacha, returning from the injured list, went 4+2⁄3 innings and had a no decision. Reliever Austin Davis got the win. The Red Sox also won the third game of the series, 6–5, overcoming a four-run first inning by the Mariners. John Schreiber, the fifth of six Boston pitchers, got the win, and Matt Barnes earned his second save of the season. Rafael Devers hit two home runs. Boston complete the series sweep an 8–4 win in extra innings, extending their winning streak to five games. With the Red Sox holding a 3–2 lead entering the top of the ninth, Hansel Robles surrendered a home run to Eugenio Suárez, tying the game. The Mariners pushed across a single run in the top of the 10th. Boston tied the game in the bottom of the inning, and had the bases loaded with two outs. Franchy Cordero then hit a walk-off grand slam. Christian Arroyo and Story also homered during the game, and Jake Diekman earned the win in relief.

Red Sox won the series 4–0 (33–18 runs)

May 24–May 26, at Chicago White Sox

The Red Sox opened a three-game road series against the White Sox with a 16–3 win. Rafael Devers, Kiké Hernández, Trevor Story, and Christian Vázquez each homered, as Boston registered 19 hits. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed three runs on five hits in six innings and earned the win. In the middle game of the series, Boston's winning streak ended at six games due to a 3–1 loss. Starter Rich Hill held Chicago to three runs (two earned) on two hits in five innings, but took the loss. Alex Verdugo had the sole RBI for the Red Sox. Boston took the final game of the series, 16–7, again registering 19 hits. Hernández, Story, and Kevin Plawecki each homered, while Verdugo had four hits and three RBIs. Starter Michael Wacha left after 4+1⁄3 innings; reliever John Schreiber earned the win.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (33–13 runs)

May 27–May 30, vs. Baltimore Orioles

The Red Sox and Orioles played a five-game series in four days. Baltimore won the opening game, 12–8, despite Boston holding a 6–0 lead after two innings and an 8–2 lead entering the seventh. Starter Garrett Whitlock allowed two runs on five hits in six innings. Matt Strahm, the third of four Red Sox relievers, took the loss after allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits in 1⁄3 of an inning. Xander Bogaerts homered. In the first game of a Saturday afternoon doubleheader, Nathan Eovaldi pitched a complete game as Boston won, 5–3. Rafael Devers had four hits and Bobby Dalbec hit a pinch-hit home run. Baltimore won the second game of the doubleheader, 4–2. Red Sox starter Josh Winckowski, making his MLB debut, allowed four runs on six hits in three innings and took the loss. Christian Vázquez had three hits. The Red Sox evened the series by winning the fourth game, 12–2. Five Boston players hit home runs: Dalbec, Devers, Christian Arroyo, Franchy Cordero, and Kiké Hernández. Starter Nick Pivetta earned the win after allowing one run on five hits in six innings. The Orioles shutout the Red Sox in the final game of the series, 10–0. Boston starter Rich Hill allowed six runs on seven hits in four innings and took the loss. Red Sox batters were limited to four hits.

Red Sox lost the series 2–3 (27–31 runs)

May 31–June 1, vs. Cincinnati Reds

The Red Sox lost the opener of a two-game home series against the Reds, 2–1. Down by two runs in the bottom of the ninth, Boston had runners at second the third with no outs, but were only able to score once. Starter Michael Wacha allowed one run on three hits in 5+2⁄3 innings and took the loss. The Red Sox ended May with a record of 23–27, in fourth place in the American League East, 11+1⁄2 games behind the division-leading Yankees.

June

The Red Sox entered June in fourth place in the American League East with a record of 23–27, having just lost the first game of a two-game home series against the Reds.

June 1, vs. Cincinnati Reds (cont'd)

The Red Sox defeated the Reds, 7–1, to close out their two-game set. Starter Garrett Whitlock earned the win after allowing one run (unearned) on five hits in six innings. Jackie Bradley Jr. had two hits and drove in four runs.

Red Sox split the series 1–1 (8–3 runs)

June 3–June 5, at Oakland Athletics

Boston opened a three-game road series in Oakland with a 7–2 win. Starter Nathan Eovaldi earned the win after holding the A's scoreless on four hits in six innings. Xander Bogaerts homered, while playing his 1,094th game at shortstop, the most in Red Sox franchise history.^[72] The Red Sox shutout the A's in the middle game of the series, 8–0. Starter and winning pitcher Nick Pivetta held Oakland to two hits in seven innings. Alex Verdugo had three hits and two RBIs. Boston completed the series sweep with a 5–2 victory in the third game. Starter Rich Hill allowed one run on three hits in six innings and earned the win. Franchy Cordero and Rafael Devers both homered. The win brought Boston's record to 27–27, reaching .500 for the first time since they were 7–7 on April 22.

Red Sox won the series 3–0 (20–4 runs)

June 6–June 9, at Los Angeles Angels

Michael Wacha pitched a three-hit complete game shutout in the opener of a four-game series in Anaheim, as the Red Sox defeated the Angels, 1–0. Christian Vázquez drove in the lone run of the game in the second inning. Prior to the next game, the Angels fired manager Joe Maddon, as the team had fallen to 27–29, including an active 12-game losing streak, after starting the season 21–11.^[73] The Red Sox extended their winning streak to six games with a 6–5 win in extra innings in series' second game. Starter Garrett Whitlock allowed four runs on six hits in four innings. Tanner Houck, the fourth of five Boston relievers, pitched two innings and earned the win; Matt Strahm earned a save. Vázquez drove in the winning run with a single in the top of the 10th inning. The third game of the series was another 1–0 Boston win. Bobby Dalbec drove in the only run of the game, via a sixth-inning double. Starter Nathan Eovaldi earned the win after holding the Angels scoreless on six hits in five innings; Strahm earned another save. Los Angeles won the final game of the series, 5–2. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed four runs on six hits in five innings and took the loss. Dalbec and Alex Verdugo drove in Boston's runs.

Red Sox won the series 3–1 (10–10 runs)

June 10–June 12, at Seattle Mariners

The Red Sox defeated the Mariners, 4–3, in the opener of a three-game series. Starter Rich Hill had a no decision after allowing two runs on five hits in 4+1⁄3 innings. Jake Diekman, the second of five Boston relievers, earned the win; Tanner Houck earned a save. J. D. Martinez and Bobby Dalbec each homered. Seattle won the series' second game, 7–6. Boston held a 6–5 lead entering the bottom of the ninth, but Hansel Robles allowed two runs for a blown save and the loss. Starter Michael Wacha lasted 4+1⁄3 innings while allowing four runs (three earned) on eight hits. Martinez, Dalbec, and Rafael Devers each homered. The Red Sox won the final game of the series, 2–0. Starter Kutter Crawford, newly recalled from Triple-A, held the Mariners scoreless on a single hit through five innings, but had a no decision. Tyler Danish, the third of five Boston relievers, got the win, and Houck earned another save. Devers drove in both runs via an eighth-inning homer.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (12–10 runs)

June 14–June 16, vs. Oakland Athletics

The opener of a three-game home series against the Athletics was a 6–1 Red Sox win. Starter Nick Pivetta earned the win after allowing one run on three hits in eight innings. J. D. Martinez and Rafael Devers both homered. Boston won the second game of the series, 10–1, with starter Josh Winckowski earning the win after pitching five shutout innings. Devers and Alex Verdugo homered. The final game of the series was won by Oakland, 4–3. Boston starter Rich Hill allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits in 5+2⁄3 innings and took the loss. Martinez had three of the Red Sox' 11 hits.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (19–6 runs)

June 17–June 19, vs. St. Louis Cardinals

Boston withstood a four-run ninth inning by St. Louis to win the opener of a three-game home series, 6–5. Starter Michael Wacha earned the win, having allowed just one run on six hits in 5+1⁄3 innings. Tanner Houck recorded the final out and earned a save. Xander Bogaerts had three hits. The Cardinals won the middle game of the series, 11–2. Red Sox starter Kutter Crawford took the loss after allowing four runs on six hits in four innings. Bogaerts had two of Boston's five hits. The final game of the series was a 6–4 Red Sox win. Starter Nick Pivetta pitched seven innings, allowing one run on four hits and earned the win. Houck again recorded the final out and earned a save after Tyler Danish allowed a three-run homer to Juan Yepez with two outs in the ninth. Trevor Story and Christian Vázquez homered for Boston.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (14–20 runs)

June 20–June 22, vs. Detroit Tigers

The Red Sox defeated the Tigers, 5–2, in the first game of a three-game homestand. Starter Josh Winckowski allowed two runs on seven hits in 6+2⁄3 innings and earned the win. Tanner Houck earned his fifth save of the season. Franchy Cordero had three hits and two RBIs. The middle game of the series was also won by Boston, 5–4. Starter Rich Hill earned the win after allowing three runs on seven hits in five innings. John Schreiber recorded the final out and earned a save. Trevor Story and Christian Vázquez both homered. A 6–2 win in the final game of the series completed the sweep for Boston. Starter Michael Wacha pitched six innings, allowing two runs on five hits, and earned the win. Rob Refsnyder hit his first home run as a member of the Red Sox. Jeter Downs made his major-league debut, playing third base and going hitless in four at bats.

Red Sox won the series 3–0 (16–8 runs)

June 24–June 26, at Cleveland Guardians

Boston won the opener of a three-game series in Cleveland, 6–3. Starter Nick Pivetta went seven innings; he allowed two runs on nine hits and earned the win. Christian Arroyo went 3-for-4 at the plate, including a home run. Rafael Devers also homered. The Red Sox also won the second game of the series, 4–2. Starter Josh Winckowski earned the win after allowing two runs on six hits in 5+1⁄3 innings. Tanner Houck earned a save, Jarren Duran went 4-for-5 at the plate, and Alex Verdugo homered. Boston earned their second straight sweep by winning the finale, 8–3. Rich Hill tossed six strong innings with one earned run and the Sox offense exploded for 15 hits while also drawing 11 walks (two intentional). J. D. Martinez and Trevor Story each drove in two runs; Martinez and Devers both went 3-for-5 on the afternoon. The series sweep extended Boston's winning streak to seven games.

Red Sox won the series 3–0 (18–8 runs)

June 27–June 29, at Toronto Blue Jays

Tanner Houck and Jarren Duran did not accompany the Red Sox to Toronto due to being unvaccinated against COVID-19, and vaccination was required at the time of the series to enter Canada.^[74] Their roster spots were filled by Connor Seabold and Yolmer Sánchez, respectively.^[75]

Boston's seven-game winning streak came to an end with a 7–2 loss to Toronto in the opener of a three-game series. Connor Seabold started and took the loss after allowing seven runs on nine hits (three of the hits being home runs) in 4+2⁄3 innings. The Blue Jays also won the second game of the series, 6–5. Toronto scored twice in the bottom of the ninth off of Hansel Robles, after the first two batters of the inning reached base against Tyler Danish, who took the loss. Boston started Michael Wacha had a no decision after allowing four runs on seven hits in five innings. Trevor Story and Rob Refsnyder each homered. The Red Sox avoided being swept by winning the final game of the series, 6–5, in 10 innings. Boston held a 3–2 lead after six innings, but Toronto tied the game with a run in the bottom of the eighth off of Ryan Brasier. After the Red Sox scored three runs in the top of the tenth, Matt Strahm allowed two runs (one earned) in the bottom of the inning but held on to the lead and earned the win. Starter Nick Pivetta held the Blue Jays to two runs on five hits in six innings. Toronto catcher Alejandro Kirk was hit by a pitch from Pivetta in the third inning, which led to words between Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Pivetta, as benches cleared without punches being thrown.^[76] Franchy Cordero was 4-for-5 at the plate and Alex Verdugo drove in four runs, including a two-run homer.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (13–18 runs)

With an off day on June 30, Boston held a 43–33 (.566) record, having gone 20–6 (.769) during the month.

July

The Red Sox entered July tied with the Blue Jays for second place in the American League East. Both teams had records of 43–33 and were 12+1⁄2 games behind the Yankees.

July 1–July 3, at Chicago Cubs

The Red Sox and Cubs met at Wrigley Field for the first time since 2012.^[77] The Cubs won the first game of the three-game series, 6–5, scoring three runs in the bottom of the sixth off of Hansel Robles, who took the loss. Starter Rich Hill allowed the Cubs' other three runs, in 4+2⁄3 innings of work. Jarren Duran homered on the first pitch of the game,^[78] and Jackie Bradley Jr. drove in three runs. Chicago also won the second game of the series, 3–1. Red Sox starter Josh Winckowski went six innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on six hits, and took the loss. Boston's only run came in the sixth inning, when Rafael Devers grounded into a double play with runners on first and third with no outs. Duran had two of Boston's five hits. The Red Sox avoided being swept with a 4–2 win in 11 innings in the final game of the series. Connor Seabold started and allowed one run on six hits in four innings. Boston held a 2–1 lead entering the bottom of the eighth, but Chicago scored a run off of Matt Strahm to tie the game. After scoreless ninth and 10th innings, the Red Sox scored two unearned runs in the top of the 11th. Jake Diekman, who had pitched the 10th inning for Boston, also held the Cubs scoreless in the bottom of the 11th and earned the win. Xander Bogaerts left the game in the bottom of the seventh inning after apparently having his left knee spiked while covering second base on a stolen base attempt.^[79]

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (10–11 runs)

July 4–July 6, vs. Tampa Bay Rays

The Red Sox opened a three-game home series with a 4–0 win over the Rays. Austin Davis pitched two innings as an opener, followed by 5+1⁄3 innings by Kutter Crawford, who earned the win. John Schreiber recorded the final five outs for a save. Trevor Story homered. The Rays won the middle game of the series, 8–4. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss after allowing seven runs on eight hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. Story and Xander Bogaerts each homered. Tampa Bay also won the final game of the series, 7–1. Boston starter Brayan Bello, making his MLB debut, took the loss after allowing four runs on six hits in four innings. J. D. Martinez drove in the only Red Sox run.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (9–15 runs)

July 7–July 10, vs. New York Yankees

The Yankees won the opener of a four-game series at Fenway Park with a 6–5 win. All of Boston's runs were driven in by Rafael Devers, who had a two-run homer and a three-run homer. Red Sox starter Josh Winckowski took the loss after allowing six runs on six hits in five innings. The Yankees also won the second game of the series, 12–5. Red Sox starter Connor Seabold allowed seven runs on nine hits in 2+2⁄3 innings and took the loss. Jackie Bradley Jr. made his major-league pitching debut, allowing one run on one hit in the ninth inning. Rob Refsnyder had four hits while Trevor Story and Bobby Dalbec each homered. The Red Sox ended their four-game losing streak with an extra innings 6–5 win over the Yankees in the third game of the series. After falling behind 3–1, Boston scored once in the bottom of the sixth and again in the bottom of the eighth to tie the game. The Yankees scored twice off of reliever Jake Diekman in the top of the 10th, but Diekman was credited the win after the Red Sox scored three times in the bottom of the inning. The rally included the first major-league career hit by Jeter Downs, who was driven in by a two-RBI walk-off single by Alex Verdugo. Starter Kutter Crawford had a no decision after allowing one run on four hits in five innings. Refsnyder also homered. The Red Sox split the series by winning the final game, 11–6. After trailing by four runs midway through the third inning, Boston went on to score nine unanswered runs. Starter Nick Pivetta left after allowing six runs on eight hits in 3+1⁄3 innings; four Red Sox relievers then held the Yankees to no additional runs on three hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. Hirokazu Sawamura, who did not allow a hit in two innings pitched, earned the win. Offensively, Story drove in three runs on a bases-clearing double, and was one of four Boston batters with two hits. Franchy Cordero, Christian Vázquez, and J. D. Martinez each homered.

Red Sox split the series 2–2 (27–29 runs)

July 11–July 14, at Tampa Bay Rays

A four-game series in Tampa Bay opened with a 10–5 loss for the Red Sox. After falling behind 5–1, Boston tied the game at 5–5, but were shutout after the fifth inning. Starter Brayan Bello allowed five runs on seven hits in four innings for a no decision. The loss went to Jake Diekman, the second of four Boston relievers, who allowed two runs on one hit in one-third of an inning. J. D. Martinez had two doubles and drove in two runs. The Rays also won the second game of the series, 3–2. Chris Sale made his first start of the season, receiving a no decision after holding Tampa Bay scoreless on three hits in five innings. With Boston holding a 2–0 lead entering the bottom of the sixth, the Rays scored three runs in the bottom of the inning, two of them coming on a play during which Boston made two errors. Matt Strahm, the second of five Red Sox relievers, took the loss. Both Strahm and Trevor Story were struck by baseballs during the game and left with possible hand or wrist injuries.^[80] Tampa Bay won the third game of the series, 4–1. Boston's lone run came in the fifth inning as Xander Bogaerts scored when Christian Vázquez grounded into a double play. Starter Josh Winckowski took the loss after allowing three runs on four hits in six innings. The Rays won the final game by a 5–4 score, becoming the first time Boston was ever swept in a four-game series at Tropicana Field.^[81] Red Sox starter Kutter Crawford had a no decision after allowing three runs on six hits in six innings. John Schreiber took the loss after allowing two runs on three hits in one inning of relief. Rafael Devers homered, his 20th of the season.

Red Sox lost the series 0–4 (12–22 runs)

July 15–July 17, at New York Yankees

In the final series before the All-Star break, the Red Sox opened a three-game set in The Bronx with a 5–4 win in extra innings. Starter Nathan Eovaldi, back from a month on the injured list, had a no decision after allowing three runs on six hits in 4+1⁄3 innings. Tanner Houck, the third of four Boston relievers, had a blown save but ultimately earned the win. Ryan Brasier recorded a save. Rafael Devers, Christian Vázquez, and Bobby Dalbec each homered. Xander Bogaerts scored what proved to be the winning run on a wild pitch in the top of the 11th inning. The Yankees won the middle game of the series, 14–1. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss, allowing seven runs on seven hits in 4+1⁄3 innings. The Red Sox' only run came on a first-inning homer by Devers. In the final game of the series, starter Chris Sale left in the first inning after being struck by a line drive hit by Aaron Hicks, causing a left fifth-finger fracture.^[82] Sale took the loss in the 13–2 defeat, having allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits in 2⁄3 of an inning. Boston's only runs came on a two-run homer by Jeter Downs.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (8–31 runs)

July 18–July 21, All-Star Break

Boston reached the break with a record of 48–45, having gone 5–12 in the first three weeks of July. Red Sox players Rafael Devers, Xander Bogaerts, and J. D. Martinez were selected to the All-Star Game. In the game, played at Dodger Stadium, Devers started at third base and walked in one plate appearance. Bogaerts played at shortstop as a substitute and struck out in one plate appearance. Martinez entered the game as a substitute DH, striking out once and grounding out once. The AL won their ninth Midsummer Classic in a row, by a 3–2 score.^[83]

July 22–July 24, vs. Toronto Blue Jays

In the opener of a three-game series at Fenway, Toronto won by a score of 28–5. The 28 runs were the most in a single game in Blue Jays franchise history and also the most runs allowed in a single game in Red Sox franchise history.^[84] Toronto's Lourdes Gurriel Jr. became one of the few MLB players to amass six hits in a game.^[85] Starter Nathan Eovaldi took the loss after allowing nine runs on eight hits in 2+2⁄3 innings. Christian Vázquez had two home runs, while Jackie Bradley Jr. and Rob Refsnyder also homered. The Red Sox lost the middle game of the series, 4–1, for their fourth consecutive defeat. Starter Kutter Crawford allowed three runs on five hits in six innings and took the loss. Boston's only run came on a home run by Bobby Dalbec in the second inning. The Blue Jays completed the sweep with an 8–4 win on Sunday afternoon. Brayan Bello started for the Red Sox and took the loss after allowing five runs on nine hits in four innings. Bradley Jr. homered.

Red Sox lost the series 0–3 (10–40 runs)

July 25–July 28, vs. Cleveland Guardians

The Red Sox ended a five-game losing streak with a 3–1 win, opening a four-game home series with the Guardians. Starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after allowing one runs on seven hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. Reliever John Schreiber got the win and Garrett Whitlock earned a save. Boston's six hits came from six different players. The Guardians won the second game of the series, 8–3. Starter Josh Winckowski, activated from the COVID-19 related list, allowed five runs on six hits in three innings and took the loss. Xander Bogaerts was 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. The loss dropped the Red Sox to a .500 record on the season for the first time since June 5. A win by Baltimore over Tampa Bay left Boston in last place in the AL East.^[86] Cleveland won the third game of the series, 7–6, overcoming two home runs and five RBIs by Bobby Dalbec. The game included five errors; two by the Guardians and three by Franchy Cordero of the Red Sox at first base. Starter Nathan Eovaldi had a no decision after allowing five runs (three earned) on nine hits in six innings. John Schreiber was charged with a blown save while Tanner Houck took the loss. Boston won the final game, 4–2, to split the series. Starter Kutter Crawford held the Guardians to one run on three hits in 5+2⁄3 innings, but had a no decision. Reliever Jake Diekman got the win and Whitlock earned another save. Bogaerts drove in three runs on sixth-inning homer.

Red Sox split the series 2–2 (16–18 runs)

July 29–July 31, vs. Milwaukee Brewers

In a three-game interleague series at Fenway, Milwaukee won the first game, 4–1. The Red Sox used Austin Davis as an opener; he allowed no runs on one hit in 2+1⁄3 innings. He was followed by Brayan Bello, who took the loss after allowing two runs on four hits in 4+1⁄3 innings. Boston's only run was driven in by Alex Verdugo. The Brewers won the second game, 9–4, scoring four late runs after the Red Sox had closed within a run, 5–4, at the end of the seventh inning. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed four runs on nine hits in five innings and took the loss. Christian Arroyo, returning from the injured list, had three hits. Boston won the final game of the series, 7–2, powered by a five-run fifth inning that included four consecutive doubles. Starter Josh Winckowski earned the win after allowing two runs on seven hits in five innings.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (12–15 runs)

Boston went 8–19 during July, ending the month with a 51–52 record, in last place of the AL East and 18 games behind the Yankees. The team was also 3+1⁄2 games out of a wild card spot.

August

The Red Sox entered August with a 51–52 record, in last place of the AL East and 3+1⁄2 games out of a wild card spot. Notable dates in August:

• August 2 (6 p.m. ET) – MLB trade deadline; to be eligible for postseason play, players had to be acquired prior to the trade deadline^[87]
• August 31 – MLB postseason eligibility deadline; the same, for players acquired via waiver claim^[88]

August 1–August 3, at Houston Astros

Boston opened a three-game series in Houston with a 3–2 win. Catcher Christian Vázquez was traded from the Red Sox to the Astros prior to the game, for two minor-league prospects. Jarren Duran had two hits, including a home run, and drove in all three runs. Starter Nathan Eovaldi earned the win after allowing two runs (both unearned) on four hits in 6+1⁄3 innings. Tanner Houck earned his seventh save of the season. Boston won the second game of the series, 2–1. Tommy Pham, acquired the day prior, made his Red Sox debut, recording a hit and scoring a run. Starter Kutter Crawford earned the win after pitching six innings while allowing one run on seven hits. Houck again earned a save. Rafael Devers, back from an injury, had a home run and two RBIs. Houston won the final game of the series, 6–1, to avoid being swept. Boston's only run came on a ninth-inning home run by Xander Bogaerts. Starter Rich Hill took the loss after allowing four runs on six hits in three innings.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (6–9 runs)

August 4–August 7, at Kansas City Royals

In the opener of a four-game series in Kansas City, the Red Sox lost to the Royals, 7–3. With the score tied, 3–3, the Royals scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh, including a three-run home run that may or may not have hit the left-field foul pole, leading to the ejection of Alex Cora. Starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after allowing three runs on seven hits in five innings. Reliever Darwinzon Hernández, who allowed four runs on four hits in two innings, took the loss. Rafael Devers drove in two runs. Boston won the second game of the series, 7–4, with the win going to starter Josh Winckowski, who pitched five innings while allowing one run on five hits. Xander Bogaerts was 4-for-5 and Alex Verdugo was 3-for-4. The Royals won the third game of the series, 5–4, with Nick Pratto hitting a walk-off home run with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning. Garrett Whitlock, who pitched 2+2⁄3 innings, allowed only that hit and took the loss. Starter Nathan Eovaldi allowed four runs on seven hits in six innings for a no decision. Verdugo and Bobby Dalbec both homered. The Royals won the final game of the series, 13–5, with the loss going to starter Kutter Crawford, who pitched five innings while allowing five runs on five hits. Hernández also allowed five runs in relief, facing five batters without recording an out. Tommy Pham, batting leadoff, had three RBIs via a single and home run. Devers also homered.

Red Sox lost the series 1–3 (19–29 runs)

August 9–August 10, vs. Atlanta Braves

The opener of a two-game home series went into extra innings. Boston held a 5–4 lead after five innings, and the score stood at 6–6 after eight innings. After a scoreless ninth, each team scored once in the tenth. Atlanta then scored twice in the top of the 11th and held Boston scoreless in the bottom of the inning for a 9–7 win. Boston starter Rich Hill allowed four runs on seven hits in four innings. Reliever Kaleb Ort, the sixth of seven Red Sox relievers, allowed three runs (one earned) on three hits in 1+2⁄3 innings and took the loss. Christian Arroyo, Tommy Pham, and Jarren Duran each homered. The Braves also won the second game, 8–4. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss and fell to 8–9 on the season; he allowed three runs on five hits in six innings. Pham again homered. It was the fourth time this season that the Red Sox were swept in a series.

Red Sox lost the series 0–2 (11–17 runs)

August 11, vs. Baltimore Orioles

In a single-game home series against the Orioles, scheduled due to the delayed start of the season, the Red Sox won, 4–3. Starter Josh Winckowski had a no decision after allowing three runs on six hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. Reliever Austin Davis retired the only batter he faced and was credited with the win. John Schreiber pitched the final two innings and earned a save. Xander Bogaerts was 2-for-3 with an RBI and run scored.

Red Sox won the series 1–0 (4–3 runs)

August 12–August 14, vs. New York Yankees

The Red Sox won the first of three home games against the Yankees, 3–2, in 10 innings. J. D. Martinez had three hits and two RBIs, while Tommy Pham drove in the game-winning run. Starter Nathan Eovaldi held New York to two runs on eight hits in six innings. Garrett Whitlock pitched the final two innings without allowing a hit and earned the win. The middle game of the series was a 3–2 Yankees win. Down by a run, the Red Sox had two runners on base with one out in the ninth inning, but were unable to score the tying run. Starter Kutter Crawford pitched six innings, allowing two runs on two hits for a no decision. John Schreiber allowed one run on three hits in two innings and took the loss. The Red Sox won the final game of the series, 3–0. Rafael Devers hit a two-run home run and Xander Bogaerts had the other RBI. Starter Michael Wacha, activated from the injured list, got the win after holding the Yankees to two hits in seven innings. Whitlock earned the save. The game was completed in just two hours and 15 minutes, the shortest Yankees–Red Sox game since another 2:15 game in 2018 and a 2:13 game in 1994.^[89]

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (8–5 runs)

August 16–August 18, at Pittsburgh Pirates

Boston won the first of three games in Pittsburgh, 5–3, after jumping out to 4–0 first-inning lead. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed no runs on just one hit in seven innings, and earned the win. Matt Barnes retired the side in order in the bottom of the ninth for a save. Tommy Pham had two of Boston's five hits. The second game of the series was also won by the Red Sox, 8–3. Starter Rich Hill earned the win after holding the Pirates to two runs on three hits in five innings. Christian Arroyo had three hits and three RBIs, while Alex Verdugo had three hits and scored three runs. Pittsburgh avoided being swept with an 8–2 win in the final game of the series. The Red Sox were limited to five hits, all singles. Starter Josh Winckowski took the loss after allowing six runs on seven hits in five innings.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (15–14 runs)

August 19–August 21, at Baltimore Orioles

The opener of a three-game series at Camden Yards featured 37 hits and 25 runs, ending in a 15–10 Orioles victory. Starter Kutter Crawford took the loss after allowing nine runs on 11 hits in 3+2⁄3 innings. Tommy Pham had two hits and three RBIs before leaving the game in the fifth inning due to injury.^[90] Alex Verdugo, Christian Arroyo, and Rob Refsnyder each had three hits and an RBI. Xander Bogaerts and Alex Cora were both ejected in the fourth inning following a called third strike on Bogaerts.^[91] Boston won the middle game of the series, 4–3. Arroyo batted leadoff and had three hits; Kiké Hernández drove in two runs. Starter Michael Wacha earned the win, pitching 5+2⁄3 innings and holding Baltimore scoreless on four hits. Garrett Whitlock pitched the final two innings for the save. The final game of the series was played in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, as the 2022 edition of the MLB Little League Classic. It was won by the Orioles, 5–3. After Baltimore took an early 2–1 lead, Boston tied the game at 2–2 in the top of the eighth on a home run by Franchy Cordero. The Orioles then scored three runs in the bottom of the inning, and held the Red Sox to a one run in the top of the ninth via a Bogaerts homer. Starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after allowing two runs on six hits in 5+2⁄3 innings. Matt Barnes, the second of four Boston relievers, was charged with the loss.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (17–23 runs)

August 23–August 25, vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto won the opener of a three-game series at Fenway, 9–3. Starter Josh Winckowski took the loss after allowing six runs on six hits in 2+2⁄3 innings. Backup catcher Reese McGuire pitched a scoreless ninth inning for the Red Sox. Rafael Devers had three hits and an RBI. Both Xander Bogaerts and Tommy Pham left the game due to back spasms.^[92] The middle game of the series went into extra innings and was won by the Blue Jays, 3–2. Starter Brayan Bello, back with Boston from the injured list, had a no decision after allowing two runs on six hits in five innings. Ryan Brasier allowed one run on one hit in the 10th inning and took the loss. Franchy Cordero had two hits and drove in both Red Sox runs. Toronto completed a sweep with a 6–5 win, again in 10 innings, in the final game of the series. Starter Kutter Crawford had a no decision after allowing four runs on 10 hits in 4+2⁄3 innings. The loss went to John Schreiber, the last of five Boston relievers, who allowed a run in the 10th inning. McGuire had three hits, including his first MLB triple.

Red Sox lost the series 0–3 (10–18 runs)

August 26–August 28, vs. Tampa Bay Rays

In the first game of a three-game home series, Boston went from a 4–1 deficit to a 9–4 lead and held on for a 9–8 win. Starter Michael Wacha earned the win after allowing four runs on five hits in six innings. Garrett Whitlock held the Rays scoreless in the ninth inning for a save. Franchy Cordero and Xander Bogaerts each homered. Kevin Plawecki had three hits and two RBIs. The Red Sox also won the middle game of the series, 5–1. Starter Rich Hill held Tampa Bay scoreless on three hits in seven innings and earned the win. John Schreiber recorded the final four outs and earned a save. Kiké Hernández homered. Tampa Bay avoided a sweep by winning the final game of the series, 12–4. Starter Nick Pivetta allowed five runs on eight hits in five innings and took the loss. Boston had home runs by Cordero, J. D. Martinez, and Tommy Pham. Bogaerts had three hits.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (18–21 runs)

August 29–August 31, at Minnesota Twins

Boston lost the opener of a three-game series in Minnesota, 4–2. Starter Brayan Bello took the loss after allowing three runs on five hits in four innings. Trevor Story was 3-for-3 with a walk, stolen base, and a run scored. The Twins won the middle game of the series, 10–5, largely powered by six RBIs from Nick Gordon, including a fifth-inning grand slam off of reliever Ryan Brasier. Starter Kutter Crawford allowed five runs (four earned) on four hits in 4+1⁄3 innings and took the loss. The Red Sox won the final game of the series, 6–5. Xander Bogaerts had two hits and five RBIs, including a grand slam. J. D. Martinez also homered. Starter Michael Wacha improved to 10–1 on the season, getting the win after holding Minnesota to two runs on four hits in six innings. Matt Barnes recorded his fourth save of the season.

Red Sox lost the series 1–2 (13–19 runs)

Boston ended August with a record of 63–68, having gone 12–16 during the month. The team was in last place of the AL East and eight games behind Toronto for the third and final wild card postseason berth.

September

The Red Sox entered September with a 63–68 record, in last place of the AL East and eight games out of a wild card spot. MLB active rosters expanded from 26 to 28 players as of September 1, effective through the end of the regular season—the Red Sox called up catcher Connor Wong and pitcher Eduard Bazardo from Worcester.^[93]

September 1–September 4, vs. Texas Rangers

Boston scored four times in the bottom of the ninth inning to win the opener of a four-game home set against Texas, 9–8. Christian Arroyo and Rafael Devers each had three RBIs; Alex Verdugo homered. Starter Rich Hill had a no decision after allowing four runs on five hits in four innings. Jeurys Familia, the last of five Red Sox relievers, pitched a scoreless top of the ninth and earned the win. The Red Sox won the second game of the series, 9–1. Starter Nick Pivetta left after three innings, having been struck on the left leg by a ground ball.^[94] He was replaced by Tyler Danish, who pitched a scoreless fourth inning and earned the win. Connor Wong hit his first MLB home run.^[95] The third game was also won by Boston, 5–3. Starter Brayan Bello earned his first MLB win after holding the Rangers scoreless on three hits in six innings. John Schreiber recorded the final two outs for a save. Devers had two hits and two RBIs. Prior to the final game of the series, the Red Sox called up prospect Triston Casas from Worcester to make his MLB debut.^[96] Boston completed the sweep with a 5–2 win. Starter Josh Winckowski had a no decision after allowing two runs on three hits in four innings. Kaleb Ort, the first of four Red Sox relievers, pitched 1+2⁄3 scoreless innings and earned the win. Schreiber pitched the ninth inning and earned another save. Xander Bogaerts was 3-for-4 with two RBIs, Trevor Story had a homer plus two other hits and three RBIs, and Casas collected hit first MLB hit.

Red Sox won the series 4–0 (28–14 runs)

September 5–September 7, at Tampa Bay Rays

In a Labor Day matchup, Tampa Bay won the opener of a three-game series, 4–3. Starter Michael Wacha had a no decision after allowing two runs on seven hits in six innings. Jeurys Familia allowed two runs on one hit in one-third of an inning and took the loss. Alex Verdugo homered and Xander Bogaerts had two hits, his ninth consecutive multi-hit game, tying a Red Sox franchise record.^[97] The Rays won the middle game of the series, 8–4. Starter Rich Hill took the loss, having allowed five runs on nine hits in four innings. Triston Casas hit his first major-league home run; Tommy Pham also homered. Bogaerts' hitting streak came to an end, as he went 0-for-3. Tampa Bay's sweep was completed with a 1–0 win in the final game of the series. The only run of the game came in the bottom of the fifth, on a sequence of double, fly out, single. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss, having allowed that one run on two hits in five innings.

Red Sox lost the series 0–3 (7–13 runs)

September 9–September 11, at Baltimore Orioles

Boston lost their fourth game in a row, 3–2, to open a three-game series in Baltimore. Starter Brayan Bello allowed three runs on three hits in 5+1⁄3 innings and took the loss. Xander Bogaerts went 3-for-5 with a home run and both Red Sox RBIs. Boston won the middle game of the series, 17–4. Rafael Devers hit a grand slam in the first inning; Christian Arroyo also homered, and Kiké Hernández had four hits. Starter Michael Wacha got the win after allowing three runs on six hits in six innings, improving his record to 11–1 for the season. The final game of the series was a 1–0 Red Sox win. Bogaerts drove in the only run of the game with a sacrifice fly in the first inning. Starter Rich Hill went five innings, allowing two hits while striking out seven batters, and earned the win. Matt Barnes pitched the ninth inning and earned a save.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (20–7 runs)

September 13–September 14, vs. New York Yankees

In 10 innings, the Yankees won the opener of a two-game series at Fenway, 7–6. Three Boston batters hit home runs: Xander Bogaerts, Reese McGuire, and Triston Casas. Starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after allowing three runs on six hits in 5+1⁄3 innings. Jeurys Familia allowed two earned runs in the 10th inning and took the loss. Aaron Judge homered twice for New York, bringing his total on the season to 57.^[98] New York also won the second game of the series, 5–3. Only one of their runs was earned, as the Red Sox were charged with three errors. Starter Brayan Bello fell to 1–6 on the season after allowing three runs (all unearned) on six hits in five innings.

Red Sox lost the series 0–2 (9–12 runs)

September 16–September 18, vs. Kansas City Royals

The Red Sox opened a three-game home series against the Royals with a 2–1 win, despite being outhit, 8–3. Both Boston runs came in the bottom of the eighth inning, on four walks and a single. Starter Michael Wacha had a no decision after allowing one run on seven hits in seven innings. Garrett Whitlock earned the win in relief and Matt Strahm earned a save. The Royals won the middle game of the series, 9–0. Starter Rich Hill allowed four runs on eight hits in 4+2⁄3 innings and took the loss. Boston won the final game of the series, 13–3. Starter Nick Pivetta recorded his 10th win of the season, allowing three runs on seven hits in five innings. Rafael Devers had four of the Red Sox' 20 hits.

Red Sox won the series 2–1 (15–13 runs)

September 20–September 21, at Cincinnati Reds

The Red Sox opened a two-game series in Cincinnati with a 5–3 win. Brayan Bello earned the win, allowing one run on eight hits in five innings. John Schreiber earned a save. Rafael Devers, Rob Refsnyder, and J. D. Martinez each homered. Boston lost the second game of the series, 5–1. Connor Seabold, recalled from Worcester, took the loss after allowing four runs on six hits in five innings. Alex Verdugo drove in the only Red Sox run.

Red Sox tied the series 1–1 (6–8 runs)

September 22–September 25, at New York Yankees

Boston opened a four-game series at Yankee Stadium with a 5–4 loss in 10 innings. Starter Michael Wacha had a no decision after allowing three runs on six hits in six innings. All four of Boston's runs came in the seventh inning, on a solo home run by Triston Casas and a three-run homer by Reese McGuire. Reliever Kaleb Ort allowed an unearned run in the 10th inning and took the loss. The second game of the series was another 5–4 win for New York. Starter Rich Hill went five innings and had a no decision after allowing four runs on five hits. Reliever Matt Strahm, who allowed a run in the bottom of the eighth, took the loss. Alex Verdugo had three hits and Tommy Pham homered. The Yankees won the third game of the series, 7–5. Red Sox reliever John Schreiber took the loss after allowing two runs in the seventh inning; starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after allowing five runs on six hits in five innings. Casas and McGuire each homered. In the final game of the series, New York completed the sweep with a rain-shortened 2–0 win. Brayan Bello pitched all six innings for Boston and took the loss after allowing six hits; only one run was earned. Rob Refsnyder had Boston's only hit of the game. The loss, which gave the Red Sox a 72–80 record, eliminated the team from playoff contention.^[99]

Red Sox lost the series 0–4 (13–19 runs)

September 26–September 29, vs. Baltimore Orioles

The Red Sox opened a four-game home series against the Orioles with a 14–8 loss, their sixth defeat in a row. The game included a 1-hour, 40-minute rain delay. Starter Connor Seabold allowed five runs (four earned) on five hits in two innings and took the loss. J. D. Martinez and Rob Refsnyder each homered; Refsnyder and Rafael Devers each had three hits. Boston's losing streak ended at six games with a 13–9 win in the second game of the series. The teams combined for 26 total hits and used 13 total pitchers who threw 380 pitches during the game. Started Michael Wacha allowed six runs on eight hits in 3+1⁄3 innings and received a no decision; the win went to reliever Matt Strahm. Triston Casas had three hits, including a home run. Boston won the second game of the series, 3–1. Starter Rich Hill got the win after holding the Orioles scoreless on five hits in six innings. Matt Barnes earned a save. Abraham Almonte and Alex Verdugo each homered. The final game of the series was a 5–3 Red Sox win. Starter Nathan Eovaldi, back from the injured list, had a no decision after allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits in 4+2⁄3 innings. The win went to Zack Kelly, the third of four Boston relievers. Kaleb Ort earned a save. Martinez homered.

Red Sox won the series 3–1 (29–27 runs)

September 30 vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Boston opened their final road series of the season with a 9–0 loss in Toronto. Starter Nick Pivetta took the loss after allowing four runs (three earned) on six hits in five innings. The Red Sox were held to three hits and three walks. The team ended September with a record of 75–82, out of playoff contention and still in last place of the AL East.

October

Boston entered October with a 75–82 record, having just lost the opener of a three-game series in Toronto. With five games left in the season, the Red Sox were assured of finishing with a losing record.

October 1–October 2, vs. Toronto Blue Jays (cont'd)

The Blue Jays won the second game of the series, 10–0. Starter Brayan Bello took the loss, having allowed four runs on 10 hits in four innings, and fell to 2–8 on the season. The Red Sox were limited to five hits, two by Rafael Devers. Toronto completed the sweep with a 6–3 win in the Red Sox' final road game of the season. Starter Michael Wacha suffered only his second loss of the season (against 11 wins) after allowing five runs on six hits in four innings. Bobby Dalbec homered and had all three RBIs for Boston.

Red Sox lost the series 0–3 (3–25 runs)

October 3–September 5, vs. Tampa Bay Rays

The Red Sox opened their final series of the year with a 4–3 home win over the Rays. Starter Rich Hill had a no decision after allowing one run on three hits in six innings. John Schreiber earned the win in relief, Matt Barnes earned his seventh save of the season, and Rafael Devers had three hits. The middle game of the series was a rain-shortened five-inning win by Boston, 6–0. Starter Nathan Eovaldi pitched all five innings, allowing just two hits, and got the win. Xander Bogaerts had a grand slam. Boston completed their season with a 6–3 win, sweeping the Rays. Starter Nick Pivetta had a no decision after pitching four innings and allowing two runs on four hits. Eduard Bazardo, the first of five relievers, got the win, while Barnes earned a save. J. D. Martinez had four RBIs via two home runs. The sweep of the Rays left the Red Sox with a 78–84 record for the season.

Red Sox won the series 3–0 (16–6 runs)