[OmahaBaseball]

This was a big win over one of the best pitchers in baseball. In a game that was closer than the final score indicates, the Boston Red Sox (69-57) beat the Houston Astros (67-58) by an 8 to 4 score.

The Jack Flaherty experiment continues to prove successful in the box score but rumors are there is a serious divide in contract extension discussions. Regardless of the haggling, Flaherty (13-7) picked up the victory after allowing 4 earned runs on 6 hits, 5 walks, 1 wild pitch, and 1 hit batsman while striking out 8 in 7 innings of work; Game Score 52. Ryne Stanek covered the final 2 innings without allowing any further damage. The Red Sox offense was powered by Jarren Duran (2 for 5, Double, Homerun, Run, 4 RBI), Tommy Edman (2 for 4, Double, RBI), and Pablo Reyes (1 for 3, Run, RBI, Walk).

The Astros have relied on ace Framber Valdez this season, so expectations were high for this game. Much to the disappointment of the home crows, Valdez (13-9) was tagged with the loss after serving up 6 earned runs on 7 hits, 2 walks, and 2 hit batsman while striking out 7 in 6 1/3 innings of work; Game Score 40. Lance McCullers Jr. pitched the next 1 2/3 innings in relief but was hit for 2 runs (1 earned) on 2 hits and a walk. Josh Hader wrapped up the final inning without allowing any additional scoring. At the plate, Mauricio Dubon (2 for 4, Double, Run, 2 RBI), Yordan Alvarez (1 for 5, Homerun Run, RBI), and Jeremy Pena (1 for 3, Double, Run, Walk) played well.

Player of the Game: Jarren Duran (Season: #3)

AL East Standings: 3rd Place, 2 Games Behind