Image Source: The Boston Globe
Andrew Benintendi is bringing an intriguing history against Sonny Gray into Wednesday night’s matchup between the Chicago White Sox and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Benintendi has gone 11-for-29 against Gray during his career, giving him one of the more notable individual records in a game that already carries plenty of momentum for Boston.
The Red Sox entered the contest as the hottest team in baseball after an emphatic 14-2 victory over Chicago on Tuesday. Boston launched four home runs for the second consecutive game, scored six runs in each of two separate innings, and collected 15 hits in a dominant performance.
Caleb Durbin delivered the biggest blow with the first grand slam of his career, while Wilyer Abreu added two home runs. The offensive outburst allowed interim manager Chad Tracy to give several regulars lighter workloads and deploy newly acquired reliever Erik Miller in a relatively comfortable situation.
Andrew Benintendi Carries a Powerful Career Edge
Benintendi’s numbers against Gray add an important layer to the pitching matchup. The Chicago outfielder has produced 11 hits in 29 at-bats against the right-hander, a batting average of .379. Although past performance does not guarantee another strong showing, the history could make his at-bats especially significant against one of Boston’s most reliable starters.
Gray has been outstanding for the Red Sox this season, carrying a 13-2 record and a 2.93 earned run average. He has also faced the White Sox 14 times in his career, including 13 starts, and owns a 7-2 record with a 3.26 ERA in those games. However, he has not faced Chicago since 2024.
That extended gap gives both teams a fresh tactical challenge. Gray will need to rely on his command, pitch selection, and ability to keep Chicago’s hitters from building early pressure. Benintendi, meanwhile, will look to use his familiarity with Gray to help spark a White Sox lineup seeking a turnaround.
Can Chicago Stop Boston’s Explosive Run?
The White Sox have dropped five straight games to Boston and have lost six of their last 11 overall. Chicago’s task became even more difficult after the Red Sox produced another explosive offensive display in Tuesday’s opener.
Chicago will send right-hander Sean Burke to the mound. The Sutton, Mass., native attended St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury and has made one career start against his hometown team. That appearance came on April 20, 2025.
Burke has been one of the more effective pitchers in the White Sox rotation. He has recorded seven quality starts in his last eight outings, owns a 7-5 record, and entered Wednesday with a 3.04 ERA. His 140 strikeouts are tied for sixth in the American League, highlighting the challenge Boston’s lineup faces despite its recent power surge.
Chicago also has several new pieces in its lineup. Trade-deadline acquisitions Joey Bart and Brenton Doyle were inserted into Tuesday’s starting group. Bart provides another option behind the plate, while Doyle brings multiple Gold Glove Awards and defensive range to center field.
Red Sox Build Confidence at Fenway Park
Boston’s recent form has been particularly impressive against strong opposition. The Red Sox had won 15 consecutive games against teams that entered Tuesday with winning records, a stretch that has helped strengthen their position during a crucial part of the season.
That confidence was evident in the way Boston handled Tuesday’s game. The Red Sox scored six times in the first inning, continued to pressure Chicago’s pitching staff, and created enough separation for Tracy to manage the game with an eye toward the remainder of the series.
Munetaka Murakami also entered Wednesday riding an 11-game hitting streak and a 17-game on-base streak. His consistency, combined with the power supplied by Durbin and Abreu, has made Boston’s lineup difficult to navigate from top to bottom.
For Chicago, Benintendi’s experience against Gray could be an important storyline, but the White Sox will need contributions throughout the lineup. A strong start from Burke and timely hitting could help them slow Boston’s surge and avoid another one-sided result.
- Game: Chicago White Sox at Boston Red Sox
- First pitch: 7:10 p.m.
- White Sox starter: Sean Burke, 7-5 with a 3.04 ERA
- Red Sox starter: Sonny Gray, 13-2 with a 2.93 ERA
- Broadcast: NESN and WEEI-FM 93.7
As reported by The Boston Globe, the matchup offers a compelling contrast: Chicago is trying to regain control, while Boston is attempting to extend an electric stretch of baseball. With Benintendi’s strong record against Gray and the Red Sox lineup swinging with authority, Wednesday’s game carries plenty of potential drama.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Andrew Benintendi’s record against Sonny Gray?
Andrew Benintendi entered the matchup with 11 hits in 29 career at-bats against Sonny Gray.
Who is starting for the Red Sox?
Sonny Gray was scheduled to start for Boston. He entered with a 13-2 record and a 2.93 ERA.
Who is pitching for the White Sox?
Sean Burke was scheduled to start for Chicago. He carried a 7-5 record and a 3.04 ERA.
When was the game scheduled?
The White Sox and Red Sox were scheduled to begin at 7:10 p.m. at Fenway Park.
