MLB roundup: Rafael Devers pushes HR streak to six as Red Sox top Rays

Rafael Devers established a new Red Sox team record for consecutive games with a home run during Boston's 5-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays in the opening game of the series on Monday evening in St. Petersburg, Florida.

In the fourth frame, the third baseman etched his name in the annals of Red Sox history with a powerful hit to the opposite field. It was a two-run homer off a blazing 97-mph four-seam fastball from Taj Bradley (1-2), giving the Red Sox a commanding 3-0 advantage. This impressive feat marked his sixth consecutive game with a home run, surpassing the previous record set by Bobby Dalbec in 2020.

On the mound, Boston's starter Tanner Houck (4-5) showcased his skills, utilizing 94 pitches across seven innings to stifle the Rays' offense. The right-hander allowed only two hits, struck out five batters, and issued just one walk due to a defensive alignment violation.

Yandy Diaz, Josh Lowe, and Jose Caballero managed singles for the Rays, but their efforts were in vain as they were shut out for the second time this season. Despite Bradley's season-high 10 strikeouts without a walk, he struggled against the Red Sox, surrendering five runs on six hits over seven innings.

In another game, the Mariners triumphed over the Yankees with a thrilling comeback. Ty France delivered a crucial RBI single in the ninth inning, capping off a four-run rally against Clay Holmes. This victory halted the Yankees' impressive seven-game winning streak, as Holmes (1-1) faltered and allowed earned runs for the first time this season, blowing his second save in 15 opportunities.

Eduard Bazardo (1-0) faced some adversity, conceding an RBI single to Jon Berti in the eighth inning, which extended the Yankees' lead to 4-1. However, Bazardo ultimately earned the win as the Mariners emerged victorious for the fifth time in their last eight games.

Meanwhile, the Marlins secured a hard-fought win against the Brewers in extra innings. Josh Bell played the hero, delivering a walk-off single in the bottom of the tenth inning to seal the victory for Miami. Prior to that, Otto Lopez's clutch RBI single in the ninth inning sent the game into extra frames. Tanner Scott (4-4) was credited with the win for the Marlins.

The Brewers heavily relied on their bullpen after starter Joe Ross exited the game after just one inning due to a low back strain. The first five relievers from the Milwaukee bullpen combined for seven scoreless innings. However, Trevor Megill blew a save in the ninth, and Mitch White (1-1) took the loss.

The Blue Jays defeated the White Sox with a score of 9-3, as Danny Jansen went 3-for-5 with a two-run home run and five RBIs. Daulton Varsho also contributed with a two-run homer.

Bo Bichette had an impressive 4-for-4 performance with three doubles and an RBI. Toronto's Jose Berrios pitched six-plus innings, allowing three runs and eight hits.

On the other side, Paul DeJong and Nicky Lopez had solid performances for the White Sox, but it wasn't enough as they lost their fourth straight game. Chicago's Erick Fedde gave up five runs on seven hits in six innings.

In another game, the Guardians secured a 3-1 victory over the Mets, with David Fry driving in two runs and scoring another. Ben Lively pitched 5 2/3 innings for Cleveland, allowing only one run and striking out seven. Tylor Megill returned for the Mets, pitching five innings and allowing three runs (two earned).