Red Sox struggle in loss as Sandoval falters in first inning

The Boston Red Sox lost to the Tampa Bay Rays 5-1 in St. Petersburg on September 21. Starting pitcher Patrick Sandoval had a difficult first inning, allowing four runs on 40 pitches. Despite rebounding to retire 19 of the next 20 hitters, Sandoval's early performance cost the team. Reliever Tyron Guerrero, returning from injury, pitched effectively in the eighth inning. Trevor Story hit a solo home run in the ninth, extending his hitting streak to 11 games. The Red Sox now await help from the Atlanta Braves to secure a playoff spot.

• 10:52 PMYahoo Sports — Red Sox loss included ‘nightmare’ first inning for starter, return of important reliever and veteran stays hot at plate (Notebook)