The Boston Red Sox are gearing up for Game 3 against the Baltimore Orioles, aiming to clinch a series victory despite being without three significant contributors in their lineup. Ceddanne Rafaela, who has been a standout performer this season, will miss his third consecutive game due to ongoing soreness and tightness in his right quadriceps. His absence is particularly notable as Rafaela has been a key defensive asset for the team.
Alongside Rafaela, the Red Sox will also be without Caleb Durbin and Adley Rutschman, the latter of whom recently returned from a hyperextended right elbow. Durbin had been a regular in the lineup during the first two games of the series, making the team’s shorthanded status even more challenging. Interim manager Chad Tracy has opted to start Eli White in center field in place of Rafaela, prioritizing defensive stability in a critical position.
The lineup for Saturday night’s matchup at Camden Yards features Roman Anthony as the designated hitter, followed by Mickey Gasper at first base and Wilyer Abreu in right field. Trevor Story will bat cleanup and take the shortstop position, while Nick Sogard shifts to third base. Isiah Kiner-Falefa will step in at second base, and Jarren Duran is set to start in left field, batting seventh. Connor Wong will replace Rutschman behind the plate, rounding out the batting order in the ninth spot.
Concerns surrounding Rafaela's injury have been a focal point for the Red Sox. He exited Wednesday’s game early due to discomfort, and Tracy has indicated that the team will exercise caution, monitoring his recovery closely before allowing him to return to action. While Rafaela expressed optimism about a swift return, the Red Sox are understandably reluctant to risk further injury to one of their key defensive players as the season enters its final stretch.
As the Red Sox approach this game, they have already secured victories in the first two contests of the four-game series, winning the opener 6-5 and following up with a 1-0 shutout on Friday. Gasper’s first-inning home run provided the only run in the latter game, with a strong pitching performance from Ranger Suárez, Garrett Whitlock, and Aroldis Chapman ensuring the shutout.
On the mound for Boston will be Sonny Gray, who boasts an impressive 16-4 record with a 2.82 ERA. The Orioles will counter with Chris Bassitt, who has a 6-4 record and a 4.97 ERA. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they navigate the final weeks of the season, with the Red Sox looking to solidify their position in the playoff race.
First pitch for the game is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on NESN.
Here is the complete Red Sox lineup for Game 3:
Roman Anthony, DH
Mickey Gasper, 1B
Wilyer Abreu, RF
Trevor Story, SS
Nick Sogard, 3B
Isiah Kiner-Falefa, 2B
Jarren Duran, LF
Eli White, CF
Connor Wong, C
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