The Red Sox’s Postseason Hopes Reach a Crossroads in Tampa

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Sep 19, 2025 2:30 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox have owned the Rays this season. They’re 8-2 against Tampa Bay, including a 6-1 mark on the road. At least that history gives them something to lean on as they limp into a pivotal series Friday night at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

The timing, though, makes this matchup feel different.

Boston is clinging to the final American League Wild Card spot with just a game and a half lead over Cleveland. The Red Sox arrive in Tampa after a deflating home series loss to the Athletics and with an offense that has gone missing at the worst possible moment. Since mid-August, they’ve averaged just over three runs per game, a pace that won’t cut it in September against playoff-caliber arms.

Alex Bregman, brought in to solidify the middle of the order, has slumped badly.

Since Aug. 23, Bregman is 14-for-93 (.150) with one home run and seven RBI; his lone blast was a Pesky Pole scrape on Sept. 13. Nathaniel Lowe has cooled after a fast start, and injuries to Roman Anthony and Wilyer Abreu have stripped even more power from the lineup.

The pitching has held together better. Garrett Crochet, who takes the mound Friday night, remains a bright spot in the rotation, and the bullpen has managed the workload, but without run support, Boston’s margin is thin.

That’s why this series matters.

Beating Tampa Bay earlier in the year gave the Sox breathing room in the standings. Now, those wins are helping them hold onto the final wild-card spot. The Rays know Boston is vulnerable. They have almost no path to a playoff spot, but they just spoiled a four-game series for the division-leading Blue Jays. The role of spoiler gives Tampa Bay something to play for.

The Red Sox don’t need to sweep, but it would certainly be helpful.

They do need to show they can stabilize against a division rival while the Guardians keep pressing. The bats must find a way to extend at-bats, cut down strikeouts, and deliver in big spots.

For months, Boston looked like a team destined for October. In Tampa, they’ll find out if they still are.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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