Red Sox’s Ceddanne Rafaela Hits Walk-Off Homer to Extend Winning Streak to Eight Games

The Boston Red Sox extended their season-best winning streak to eight games with a dramatic 5-4 walk-off victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, highlighted by Ceddanne Rafaela's two-run home run in the ninth inning. Rafaela, who has driven in runs for seven consecutive games, connected on a 406-foot slider from Rays closer Pete Fairbanks to clinch the win, despite the Red Sox facing early adversity when starter Hunter Dobbins left the game due to knee pain. Boston rallied from a 4-1 deficit, aided by key hits from rookie Marcelo Mayer and Abraham Toro, while Alex Bregman returned from the injured list contributing a double. The Rays bullpen struggled, with Fairbanks giving up his first home run of the season and the team suffering their fourth loss in 14 games, slipping in the AL East standings. Off the field, Rafaela's older brother publicly defended him against All-Star snubs and criticism, underscoring the strong family support behind the young star. The Red Sox aim to continue their momentum with Garrett Crochet pitching in their next game, as they hold a strong position in the AL Wild Card race.