Ceddanne Rafaela hit a two-run double after Washington’s center fielder Victor Robles missed an easy catch, allowing Boston to score three runs in the second inning. The Red Sox managed to hold off the Nationals with a 3-2 victory, securing the series win.
Brayan Bello had a strong start for Boston, backed up by solid relief pitching from four other players. This win marked the Red Sox’s second consecutive victory after losing the series opener on Friday.
Boston’s team ERA dropped to 2.75, the lowest in the MLB, a notable achievement this late in the season, not seen since 1920.
Eddie Rosario hit a two-run homer for the Nationals, but Robles’ base-running error cost them a potential big inning. Additionally, Robles’ fielding mistake in the previous inning led to Boston’s decisive runs.
The game ended with Jacob Young getting caught trying to steal second base, which was challenged but confirmed.
Robles’ dropped catch allowed Boston’s rally to continue, with Rafaela capitalizing on the opportunity with his double. The inning also saw a wild pitch scoring a run and an umpire mistake regarding the count during an at-bat.
In the subsequent inning, Robles’ base-running error again hindered the Nationals’ chances of scoring, as he mistakenly ran to third base while it was occupied, leading to an easy tag out and spoiling a potential scoring opportunity for Washington.
