Game result and context
Boston Red Sox defeat Cleveland Guardians 1-0 in 2026 regular season matchup
A single run in the sixth inning proved to be the difference as the Boston Red Sox secured a 1-0 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. The win moves the Red Sox to 85-73 on the season, while the Guardians fall to 82-76.
Final result
The Boston Red Sox defeated the Cleveland Guardians 1-0 on September 23, 2026. The game remained scoreless through the first five innings before Boston broke the tie in the bottom of the sixth. The Red Sox pitching staff held the Guardians scoreless for the duration of the contest to secure the win.
How the game changed
The decisive moment occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning when Andruw Monasterio drove in the game's only run. This single run provided enough support for the Boston pitching staff, which limited Cleveland to a quiet offensive night. The Guardians were unable to respond against the Red Sox bullpen in the final three frames.
Key performances
Sonny Gray earned the win for Boston, pitching 6.0 innings and striking out three batters while allowing no earned runs. Aroldis Chapman closed the game for the Red Sox, striking out the side in the ninth inning to earn his 35th save of the season. Tyron Guerrero also contributed a scoreless inning of relief with three strikeouts.
For Cleveland, Foster Griffin took the loss despite a solid outing. Griffin pitched 6.0 innings, striking out seven and allowing only one earned run. Tim Herrin provided an inning of relief for the Guardians, striking out three batters.
Season and playoff context
With this result, the Boston Red Sox improve their record to 85-73. The Cleveland Guardians drop to 82-76. This game was the second of a three-game regular season series.