In Chicago at Guaranteed Rate Field, Robbie Grossman initiated the sixth inning with a sharply hit grounder towards the shortstop side of second base. Cincinnati Reds’ second baseman Santiago Espinal, positioned close to the bag, attempted a play just beyond the dirt but couldn’t handle the ball, allowing Grossman to reach safely for an infield hit.
This marked one of only two hits for the Sox in their 5-0 loss to the Reds, witnessed by 22,598 fans. The game underscored another disappointing offensive outing for the Sox, who were shut out for the fifth time this season, leading the majors in that statistic.
Designated hitter Gavin Sheets emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and effort regardless of injuries or other challenges, stressing the need to consistently show up prepared to compete. Despite the team’s struggles, Sheets expressed confidence in their ability to turn things around, highlighting the collective effort being put in by everyone.
The Sox’s performance has been concerning, having lost eight of their last nine games and matching their franchise’s worst 14-game start in history. The absence of key players like Luis Robert Jr., Yoán Moncada, and Eloy Jiménez due to injuries has added to the team’s difficulties. Pitcher Garrett Crochet acknowledged the tough situation but emphasized the need for a “next-man-up” mentality.
The Reds’ pitching, led by starter Nick Lodolo and relievers Fernando Cruz and Brent Suter, was dominant, tallying a total of 15 strikeouts. Lodolo, in particular, was impressive in his season debut, allowing just one hit and striking out 10 in 5 2/3 innings.
Sox manager Pedro Grifol credited Lodolo’s performance but also highlighted the necessity of overcoming such challenges to succeed in baseball. Despite Crochet’s career-high 10 strikeouts, he struggled with command, allowing five runs on four hits and three walks in less than five innings.
The second inning proved decisive, with the Reds capitalizing on Crochet’s lack of command to score all five of their runs. Despite some solid contact from the Sox’s hitters, including Sheets, who was denied extra bases by a spectacular diving catch from his former college roommate, Stuart Fairchild, the team couldn’t generate enough offense.
The Sox managed to break through with hits from Grossman in the sixth inning and Kevin Pillar in the ninth, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback. Pillar was later picked off first base, adding to the team’s frustrations.
As the Sox continue to search for solutions, Sheets emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence in their abilities and staying committed to putting in the necessary work to improve.
