Red Sox Catch Break With Astros Injury News

The Boston Red Sox got to the Houston Astros’ bullpen last night, but it was too little too late. Despite a four-run seventh inning, the Red Sox fell to the Astros, 7-6.

Houston used five relievers on Monday. With the tying run on second base, they turned to Bennett Sousa to get the final out of the game. Sousa is left-handed and came in to face Roman Anthony. Usually, left-hander Josh Hader would handle the ninth inning, but he was nowhere to be seen.

After the game, it was announced that Hader was unavailable due to shoulder soreness. The Astros placed Hader on the injured list Tuesday, taking him out for the rest of the series.

If the Red Sox can get to Astros starter Spencer Arrighetti, they might have an opportunity against a taxed Houston bullpen. Five Astros relievers pitched on Monday. Bryan King and Bryan Abreu, the Astros’ top setup men, didn’t pitch, but the back of the bullpen might be vulnerable.

Colton Gordon was recalled from Triple-A Sugarland, and Shawn Dubin was reinstated from the injured list. Hector Neris was also designated for assignment,

Gordon has primarily pitched out of the rotation and could provide length for Houston, while Dubin has pitched out of the bullpen.

Arrighetti struggled in his last outing, failing to complete four innings. If the Red Sox can force him out of the game early, they could be set up to put up a big number on offense.