ATLANTA — Trevor Story provided a significant boost for the Boston Red Sox with a pivotal two-run homer in the fourth inning, leading his team to a 5-1 win over the Atlanta Braves on Friday night. This victory halted a five-game losing streak for the Red Sox.
The Braves initially took the lead in the first inning thanks to Matt Olson’s RBI single. However, the Red Sox reclaimed the advantage in the fourth, scoring behind Story’s home run. They further added to their lead with a run in the sixth and sealed the game in the ninth with a two-run single by Rafael Devers. This result sent Atlanta to their fourth loss in five outings.
Boston’s starting pitcher, Lucas Giolito, delivered a solid performance, conceding just one earned run on five hits while striking out three batters over 4 2/3 innings. The Red Sox bullpen excelled, combining for 4 1/3 innings of shutout baseball, allowing just one hit and striking out four.
A critical moment unfolded in the bottom of the seventh with Boston leading 3-1. The Braves had potential to tie with two runners on base and two outs, as Olson grounded a sharply-hit ball to Story at shortstop. Story made a diving stop but first baseman Abraham Toro appeared to come off the bag when receiving the throw. Toro then attempted an off-target throw home, which allowed Luke Williams to reach the plate. Nevertheless, with a challenge from the Red Sox, the initial ruling at first base was overturned, resulting in Olson being called out and preserving Boston’s lead.
Before the game, Story was enduring a slump, hitting just .131 (16 for 122) with six RBIs over his last 30 games. His homer in the fourth inning ended a homerless drought that spanned 57 at-bats, marking a pivotal turning point.
In the continuation of their series, the Red Sox will send right-hander Walker Buehler (4-2, 3.95 ERA) to the mound to face Braves’ righty Spencer Schwellenbach (3-4, 3.42 ERA) in the next game on Saturday.