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Wilyer Abreu played a crucial role in another remarkable Boston Red Sox comeback Thursday night, helping his team defeat the Chicago White Sox 12-11 in 13 innings. Abreu delivered two RBIs, including the game-tying hit in the ninth inning, as Boston extended its winning streak to eight games.
The wild contest in Boston lasted 4 hours and 23 minutes, making it the second-longest game of the pitch clock era, which began in 2023. The Red Sox repeatedly fought back from deficits before Caleb Durbin ended the game with a walk-off single in the 13th inning.
Wilyer Abreu Delivers in Historic Red Sox Rally
Boston trailed 7-6 entering the ninth inning, but the Red Sox refused to let the game slip away. Abreu came through with a run-scoring hit to level the score, extending a stunning late-inning sequence that placed the team in the record books.
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Boston became the first team in MLB history to score in five consecutive innings beginning with the ninth inning or later. The unusual achievement highlighted the club’s relentless approach at the plate and its ability to manufacture offense deep into a game.
“It was unbelievable,” Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said. “They just did not want to lose.”
Boston’s Key Offensive Contributors
Abreu was one of several Red Sox hitters who kept the offense alive during the back-and-forth battle. Connor Wong hit a two-run home run, while Anthony Seigler produced three RBIs and scored a run. Their contributions helped Boston overcome an early hole and remain within striking distance throughout the night.
- Wilyer Abreu: Two RBIs, including the tying hit in the ninth inning.
- Connor Wong: Two-run home run during Boston’s comeback effort.
- Anthony Seigler: Three RBIs and one run scored.
- Caleb Durbin: Walk-off RBI single in the 13th inning.
- Brayan Bello: Worked two innings and earned the victory.
Durbin’s winning hit came after Boston held Chicago scoreless in the top of the 13th. Nick Sogard reached scoring position, setting the stage for Durbin to line a single into center field and send the winning run home.
Red Sox Extend Remarkable Winning Streak
The victory moved Boston’s winning streak to eight games. The Red Sox have also won 10 of their past 11 games and captured 10 consecutive series, underlining a dramatic turnaround during the season’s late stretch.
Boston has been especially effective against strong opposition. The team has won 13 consecutive games against opponents that entered the contest with winning records, tying the longest such streak by any team in the expansion era, which dates to 1961.
The Red Sox have also swept six series against first-place teams. Elias identified that mark as a single-season expansion-era record, adding further importance to a victory that already carried plenty of drama.
“We’re so deep right now,” Durbin said. “We trust everyone to be bench guys to whatever our lineup is. It’s special right now. It’s a fun group to be a part of.”
Pitching and Injury Notes
Brayan Bello, the ninth and final Boston pitcher, worked two innings to earn the win. Erick Fedde took the loss for Chicago after serving as the White Sox’s eighth pitcher and allowing the decisive run in the 13th.
The game began poorly for Boston starter Ranger Suarez. Chase Meidroth launched his 10th home run over the Green Monster in the third inning, and Chicago added two more runs later in the frame. Suarez threw 42 pitches in the inning and was removed after giving up three runs on three hits.
Chicago starter Luis Castillo lasted four innings, surrendering five runs on six hits. Wong’s two-run homer contributed to Castillo’s early departure.
The White Sox also lost catcher Joey Bart in the seventh inning. Bart suffered a fracture of the fifth metacarpal in his left hand and was scheduled to undergo further evaluation. Boston played without first baseman Willson Contreras, who missed his second consecutive game because of illness.
What the Win Means for Boston
For the Red Sox, the victory was more than another win in the standings. It demonstrated the club’s depth, resilience and confidence in pressure situations. Players from across the lineup contributed, while the pitching staff managed to survive a marathon contest.
Abreu’s timely hitting was central to that effort. His ninth-inning RBI helped preserve Boston’s winning streak and gave the team another opportunity to rally later in the game. With the postseason race intensifying, performances like this could become defining moments for the Red Sox.
Information for this report came from ESPN Research, ESPN News Services and The Associated Press.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Wilyer Abreu do against the White Sox?
Wilyer Abreu recorded two RBIs, including a game-tying hit in the ninth inning that helped the Red Sox continue their comeback.
What was the final score of the Red Sox game?
The Boston Red Sox defeated the Chicago White Sox 12-11 in 13 innings.
Who hit the walk-off for Boston?
Caleb Durbin hit a single to center field in the bottom of the 13th inning, scoring Nick Sogard and giving Boston the victory.
How long did the game last?
The game lasted 4 hours and 23 minutes, making it the second-longest game of the pitch clock era.
How long is Boston’s winning streak?
The Red Sox have won eight consecutive games and 10 of their past 11 contests.