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ESPN's MLB Power Rankings this week have the Boston Red Sox entering the top 10 at No. 8 as this club has far exceeded expectations for the season thus far and continues to do so. Boston had won eight of their last ten games coming into this series. They begin their series hosting the San Diego Padres at home on Friday. We should see some good value on the line with San Diego sitting just above the .500 mark and playing well themselves of late. In fact, the Padres have won seven of their last eight games.
"Jarren Duran spent last season bouncing between Triple-A and the majors as the Red Sox limped to their second straight 78-84 record. This season, he has solidified himself as a cornerstone and potential All-Star for a club unexpectedly in possession of a wild-card spot in late June. Buoyed by his elite speed, the 27-year-old outfielder is slashing .288/.351/.480 with seven home runs and 20 steals. He leads the majors in triples and is tied for the AL lead in doubles while being among the top outfielders across the sport in defensive runs saved. He ranks 11th in fWAR. In short, he has been one of the most complete players in baseball in 2024." -- Jorge Castillo, ESPN.
Last year, Boston won two of three games in San Diego. The meetings between these two teams have been limited with ten games spanning back to 2013.
Friday
Red Sox starter Nick Pivetta (4-4, 4.06 ERA) will face Padres starter Randy Vasquez (2-4, 5.10 ERA).
Pivetta has faced this Padres roster 44 times allowing a single home run and six RBIs.
Pivetta allowed three runs in 4 1/3 innings and got a no-decision against the Reds on Saturday. He did have a win prior to that.
Vasquez pitched well in Saturday’s victory over the Brewers, scattering five hits over five scoreless innings of work but before that was lit up for six runs over 4 1/3 innings on Monday in a loss to the Phillies.
Saturday
Red Sox starter Tanner Houck (7-5, 2.18 ERA) goes up against Michael King (5-5, 3.75 ERA).
Houck allowed three runs (two earned) in 6 2/3 innings and got a no-decision in the Red Sox’ 7-6 victory over the Blue Jays on Monday. He had a win prior to that.
Rafael Devers has been dangerous against King, going 5-for-8 with two home runs and four RBIs. King struggled in a losing effort against the Brewers on Sunday afternoon, giving up five runs on nine hits over his six innings of work. He has not had a win in his last three starts.
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