Red Sox struggle in second inning, fall to Rangers in season opener

The Boston Red Sox began their final road trip of the season with a 4-2 loss to the Texas Rangers in Arlington on September 15. The game was highlighted by a difficult second inning for starting pitcher Patrick Sandoval, who faced 44 pitches and allowed four runs. Despite having opportunities, the Red Sox were unable to convert with runners in scoring position, finishing 0-for-4 in such situations. Starting pitcher Jacob deGrom limited the Red Sox to just three hits over five innings, maintaining strong strikeout numbers. The Red Sox' magic number to clinch a postseason berth remains five, as the team looks to improve their performance in the next two games.

• 5:07 AMYahoo Sports — Red Sox reactions: Patrick Sandoval’s 44-pitch inning dooms Boston as final road trip starts