As everyone said, the momentum from the trade deadline would carry the Red Sox over the Houston Astros.
The Red Sox took 2-3 from the Kansas City Royals when they visited KC and are looking to do the same now against a Royals team that has struggled since May.
Lefthander Bailey Falter will be making his Royals debut having been acquired at the deadline from the Pittsburgh Pirates. He’s struck out just 70 in 113 innings with 39 walks. This is, simply, an odd profile for a starter in 2025. While not really a measure of much these days, Falter was 7-5 for the Pirates. The team only has 48 wins. It doesn’t mean anything but it’s one of those things anyway that makes you surprised.
Ryan Bergert is also making his Royal debut after being acquired from the San Diego Padres. The 25-year-old rookie righthander strikes people out (34 in 35.2 innings) but also give up his fair share of walks (18). Facing Garret Crochet is a tough draw for any pitcher.
Old friend Michael Wacha is in town for this series and will square off against Dustin May making his Red Sox debut. Wacha is coming off an excellent start – 1 run in 8 innings against the hot Blue Jays. The Royals at 9.0 games back of the Detroit Tigers but just 3.5 from a Wild Card and fancy themselves in the playoff hunt.
Probable Pitching Matchups
Monday, August 4: Bailey Falter (3.73 ERA / 4.88 FIP) vs. Brayan Bello (3.19 ERA / 4.35 FIP)
Tuesday, August 5: Ryan Bergert (2.78 ERA / 4.25 FIP) vs. Garrett Crochet (2.23 ERA / 254 FIP)
Wednesday, August 6: Michael Wacha (3.38 ERA / 3.74 FIP) vs. Dustin May (4.85 ERA / 4.71 FIP)
When/Where to Watch
Monday August 4: 7:10 PM ET on NESN
Tuesday August 5: 7:10 PM ET on NESN
Wednesday August 6: 7:10 PM ET on NESN
