Lars Nootbaar and Masyn Winn both hit two-run homers, helping the St. Louis Cardinals secure a 10-6 victory against Boston on Friday night, causing the Red Sox to fall below a .500 win percentage for the first time since the start of the season.
Nolan Arenado, who had been struggling at the plate, managed to contribute with three hits, including an RBI single in the eighth inning, breaking a slump where he had only three hits in 27 at-bats.
“We were focused on competing and staying engaged in the game,” Arenado remarked. Nolan Gorman and Alec Burleson also added home runs for the Cardinals, who matched their season highs in runs, hits (14), and home runs. Their offense has been consistent lately, with at least 10 hits in five of their last six games.
Winn’s two-run homer marked his first in the majors, a significant moment for the young player.
Nootbaar revealed that Winn had expressed his intention to swing hard before his at-bat, a decision that paid off.
Boston’s struggles continued with their third consecutive loss and tenth in their last 14 games, dropping their record to 22-23. This marks the first time they’ve fallen below .500 since the season’s early stages.
Kyle Gibson earned the win for the Cardinals, despite allowing five runs over six-plus innings. On the other hand, Brayan Bello, pitching on his 25th birthday, endured a tough outing, giving up a season-high five runs in just 4 2/3 innings, including three home runs.
