So much for the Red Sox having it all figured out
Audacy • • sports
Key Points:
- The Boston Red Sox suffered a 6-5, 11-inning loss to the Cincinnati Reds, highlighting that the team still has many lessons to learn despite an Opening Day win.
- Roman Anthony's early-game challenge on a called strike backfired, using the team's second and final challenge prematurely, leaving the Red Sox without any challenges later in the game against umpire CB Bucknor, who had six of eight challenges overturned.
- Umpire CB Bucknor's controversial calls, including a disputed third strike on Trevor Story, led to heightened emotions and the ejection of manager Alex Cora, who acknowledged the challenges of officiating.
- Rookie reliever Ryan Watson stood out positively by pitching 2 1/3 scoreless innings in a high-pressure environment, helping keep the Red Sox competitive late in the game.
- The Red Sox's offense struggled with 15 strikeouts and poor performance with runners in scoring position, indicating the team is still very much a work in progress early in the 2026 season.
