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3d ago

Red Sox Seize Top AL Wild Card as Late-Season Injuries and Role Shifts Reshape Races

Boston’s move into the lead underscores how health issues and bullpen reshuffles are steering decisions down the stretch.

Jun 6, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) looks at the catcher against the San Francisco Giants during the seventh inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images/ File Photo
Aug 19, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Walker Buehler (0) pitches against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images/ File Photo
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Aug 22, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Blake Snell (7) throws a pitch during the second inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Brayan Bello spun seven scoreless innings in a 1-0 win at Yankee Stadium, giving Boston a seventh straight victory over New York, clinching the season series tiebreaker and nudging the Red Sox into the top AL wild card slot.
  • Walker Buehler is moving to the Red Sox bullpen after prolonged control problems, a shift reported following weeks of internal debate over his role.
  • Cubs manager Craig Counsell said imaging showed Kyle Tucker had been playing through a small, healing hairline fracture in his right hand, news that followed a benching to reset during a pronounced second-half slump for both player and lineup.
  • Houston signed veteran closer Craig Kimbrel and welcomed Lance McCullers Jr. back from the IL; McCullers allowed three runs with five walks over four innings in a 10-7 win in Baltimore, highlighting ongoing rotation and bullpen questions.
  • The Athletic reported MLB and ESPN have an agreement that would make ESPN the exclusive home for out-of-market games and in-market for five teams, signaling a potential shift in how fans access broadcasts.