Willson Contreras Homer Propels Boston’s 13-Game Streak

Contreras Powers Red Sox to 13th Straight Win

Willson Contreras launched a two‑run, 414‑foot blast to center‑field in the fifth inning, extending Boston’s rally and locking in a 6‑1 victory over Tampa Bay. Sonny Gray (12‑1) paired his effort with six strong innings, allowing just one run on five hits while striking out five and walking four. The win marks the ninth consecutive quality start for Gray and continues a stretch where he has not surrendered more than three runs since April 14.

Rays Fight Back Early but Fall Short

Tampa Bay jumped ahead 1‑0 in the second inning when Victor Mesa Jr. stole home on an inside‑the‑park homer, a rare play that briefly thrilled the crowd. Andruw Monasterio answered for Boston with an RBI double to knot the score, but the Rays could not sustain the momentum after that. Shane McClanahan (8‑6) struggled in his start, handing over six runs—four earned—on five hits over five innings, striking out three and walking three.

Boston’s Run Without a Hit and Defensive Chaos

In the third inning Boston delivered three unearned runs without a hit. Jahmai Jones scored on a passed ball, and Wilyer Abreu came home on a fielder’s choice. Junior Caminero’s throw hit Abreu in the back as he slid into the plate, allowing all runners to advance safely. Romy Gonzalez later drove in Contreras from third, pushing the lead to 4‑1 and sealing the win.

Historical Context of Boston’s Current Streak

The 13th consecutive victory ties Boston’s second‑best run, matching the 13‑game stretch recorded in July 1948. The franchise’s longest winning spree remains the 15‑game stretch from June 1946. This current streak reinforces the Red Sox’s position among the league’s most potent hot teams of the season.

What Lies Ahead for Both Clubs

Tampa Bay heads to Toronto for a four‑game series against the Blue Jays, with Nick Martinez (8‑2, 2.65 ERA) slated to oppose Dylan Cease (6‑4, 2.56). Boston stays home for a ten‑game homestand, opening with a three‑game tilt against the Orioles; Payton Tolle (5‑6, 3.11 ERA) will face Shane Baz (4‑9, 4.19). Both clubs look to build on recent successes as the playoff picture begins to sharpen.