The Boston Red Sox are set to face the Baltimore Orioles on Friday night, and they have announced a notable change to their lineup as they seek to secure another important road victory. Trevor Story is returning to the starting lineup, taking the shortstop position and batting eighth. This marks a significant boost for the Red Sox as they look to build on their recent success.
In the series opener on Thursday, the Red Sox edged out the Orioles with a close 6-5 victory, and Story's presence is expected to enhance their offensive capabilities. Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who started at shortstop in the previous game, will move to the bench to accommodate Story's return. The Red Sox interim manager, Chad Tracy, has made this the only adjustment to the batting order for the second game of the four-game series.
Meanwhile, Ceddanne Rafaela remains sidelined due to tightness in his right quadriceps and is considered day-to-day. His absence will extend to a second consecutive game, which means Eli White will start in center field and bat ninth. The Red Sox are looking to maintain momentum in the American League playoff race, and having Story back in the lineup could be a crucial factor.
Adley Rutschman, who has quickly become a key player for the Red Sox since being acquired from the Orioles in a blockbuster trade on August 3, is also in the lineup. Rutschman had a standout performance in Thursday's game, hitting two home runs in his first game back at Camden Yards. He will catch and bat third in Friday's game, looking to continue his impressive form and contribute to the team's success.
The complete lineup for the Red Sox on Friday is as follows: Roman Anthony will lead off as the designated hitter, followed by Mickey Gasper at first base. Adley Rutschman is in the three-hole, with Wilyer Abreu hitting cleanup and playing right field. Nick Sogard, who delivered the decisive two-run homer in the eighth inning of Thursday's game, will start at second base and bat fifth. Caleb Durbin will play third base and hit sixth, while Jarren Duran rounds out the order in left field, batting seventh.
On the mound for the Red Sox will be left-hander Ranger Suárez, who enters the game with a 5-4 record and a 3.64 ERA, having struck out 119 batters over 123 2/3 innings this season. The Orioles will counter with right-hander Shane Baz, who has struggled this season with a 5-14 record and a 4.01 ERA. Despite Baz's high loss total, the Red Sox cannot afford to underestimate him as they aim to strengthen their position in the playoff race.
As the Red Sox head into this matchup with a record of 76-65, they are looking to capitalize on the opportunity against the Orioles, who currently sit at 69-72. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on NESN.
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