HOUSTON — With the Boston Red Sox trending in the right direction up the American League East standings, there was a bit of buzz inside Minute Maid Park on Friday night, a vibe borne of anticipation from this showcase of two of baseball’s best.
The series opener didn’t disappoint, with Red Sox right fielder Mookie Betts scoring both Boston (38-29) runs while ensuring that the Astros (45-23) scored just one with a marvelous defensive play to close the sixth inning in a 2-1 victory.
The Red Sox opened the season as favorites in the AL East if not the entire American League.