Boston Red Sox Seal Historic 9-Game Road Sweep, Push Win Streak to Nine

The Boston Red Sox etched their name into franchise history Sunday, completing a nine-game road sweep with a 3-2 comeback victory over the New York Mets at Citi Field — their first such feat since 1977. Now riding a nine-game win streak and sitting 46-48 overall, the team enters the All-Star break just a half-game out of an AL Wild Card spot.

How Did the Red Sox Clinch the Sweep?

Trailing 2-0 entering the ninth, Boston rallied with two runs off Mets closer Devin Williams. Ceddanne Rafaela sparked the inning with a leadoff single, setting up a game-tying RBI double by Alex Verdugo and a go-ahead sacrifice fly from Rafael Devers in the 10th.

"Even when Raf got on, you knew something was going to happen," said second baseman Anthony Seigler. "We were having too good of at-bats for something not to happen."

Tolle’s Efficient Outing and Bello’s Return

Rookie lefty Payton Tolle delivered 3 2/3 strong innings on 66 pitches, striking out seven while allowing one run. The Red Sox planned his short outing to preserve his arm, a move Tolle accepted gracefully.

"I get it," Tolle said. "I’m going to compete every time I’m out there."

Brayan Bello, recalled from Triple-A, followed with 4 1/3 innings of one-run relief, surrendering only a Francisco Lindor solo homer. The righty’s return to form bodes well for Boston’s post-break rotation.

Historic Context and Playoff Implications

This nine-game road winning streak ties the 1986 team for second-longest in franchise history. Interim manager Chad Tracy praised the group’s resilience: "I’m so proud of them. Winning all nine games on the road? That’s special."

The Sox, now 46-48, have surged from 14 games under .500 to the edge of the playoff picture since June 25. Their ability to win tight games — Sunday’s victory marked their first comeback win this season when trailing after eight innings — could define their second-half trajectory.

Key Stats and Looking Ahead

- Standing: 8th in AL (46-48 record) as of July 13, 2026.

- Last Result: Won 3-2 @ New York Mets (July 12, 2026).

- Tolle’s Line: 3 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 7 Ks on 66 pitches.

With the All-Star break pausing action until July 15, the Red Sox aim to carry this momentum into a critical July 16 homestand against the Rays.