Devers' Double Leads Red Sox to Victory, Ends Rodón's Streak - Ola

Devers' Double Leads Red Sox to Victory, Ends Rodón's Streak

Rafael Devers' two-run double played a pivotal role in the Boston Red Sox's 8-4 triumph over the New York Yankees on Saturday night, putting an end to Carlos Rodón's impressive seven-start winning streak.

Recovering from an 8-1 defeat in the series opener, the Red Sox were bolstered by RBI doubles from Tyler O’Neill and rookie Jamie Westbrook in a three-run first inning. This game marked just the second sellout at Fenway Park this season.

"The atmosphere was fantastic tonight," Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. "The fans were engaged throughout the game. It’s been enjoyable these past couple of days."

Wearing their City Connect uniforms, the Red Sox improved their record to 33-9 in the bright yellow jerseys with powder blue lettering, boasting an 18-5 record over the last two years.

Rodón (9-3) had been a model of consistency this season, conceding three or fewer runs in 13 of his 14 starts. However, the Red Sox's early offensive burst, featuring O’Neill and Westbrook's doubles and an RBI single from Connor Wong, put him on the back foot.

"Rodón's stuff was good, but he was often in the middle of the plate," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said.

Rodón ultimately gave up five runs on seven hits and three walks over five innings, marking his first loss since May 2.

"I missed my spots too often," Rodón admitted. "They hit some hard balls off me, and I couldn't settle in. It's on me."

For the Yankees, Juan Soto hit a solo home run, and DJ LeMahieu added a two-run single. Despite the loss, the Yankees remain the top team in the majors at 50-23 and had won nine of their last ten road games.

"Playing in front of the Green Monster is exciting," said Soto, who was in left field. "But it's less enjoyable when balls keep hitting off it."

Justin Slaten (4-2) delivered strong relief, pitching 2 2/3 innings and striking out Giancarlo Stanton with the bases loaded in the fifth.

"This rivalry is something special," Slaten said of his first Red Sox-Yankees game. "You can feel the history and intensity from the clubhouse to the field. It’s an incredible experience."

Kenley Jansen secured the final four outs, earning his 11th save in 12 opportunities and the 431st of his career.

After LeMahieu's single closed the gap to 3-2 in the second inning, Devers responded with a double to the left-center field, extending Boston's lead.

Soto's 18th home run of the season, an opposite-field shot over the Green Monster, brought the Yankees closer in the seventh inning.

Boston added two more runs in the eighth inning with an RBI single from Jarren Duran, who later scored on a throwing error by catcher Jose Trevino.

Prior to the game, the Red Sox honored the NCAA basketball champion UConn team, with Southborough native Alex Karaban throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.

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