Red Sox fall to Rays 5-1, playoff clinch delayed until Astros loss
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 9:18 PM
Last updated Sep 20, 2026
The Boston Red Sox lost 5-1 to the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, marking their second consecutive defeat. Tampa Bay took a 4-0 lead in the first inning, with the Red Sox struggling offensively, mustering only six hits. Despite the loss, they celebrated clinching a postseason spot after the Houston Astros fell to the Atlanta Braves. The Red Sox have a challenging road record of 2-5 in their last seven series and will face the Cleveland Guardians next. Patrick Sandoval's performance raised concerns, but Roman Anthony and Caleb Durbin showcased their skills at the plate.
- •Red Sox lose to Rays 5-1 in St. Petersburg on September 20.
- •Tampa Bay scored four times in the first inning.
- •Red Sox celebrated clinching a postseason spot after Astros loss.
- •Patrick Sandoval struggled again, but gave the team seven innings.
- •Red Sox next face Cleveland Guardians in home series.
- 9:18 PMYahoo Sports — Red Sox reactions: Clinch on hold after second straight defeat
"A chance to wrap up a playoff spot on their own was fumbled by the Red Sox, who were beaten by the Rays.
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