The Red Sox shut out the Mariners 2-0 on June 17, 2025, extending their win streak post-Devers. Brayan Bello dominated, while Bregman and Anthony drove in runs.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just days after trading away franchise cornerstone Rafael Devers in a move that shook Red Sox Nation to its core, the team is doing the one thing nobody expected: winning. On Tuesday night in Seattle, the Sox blanked the Mariners 2-0, stretching their improbable winning streak to six games. It seems manager Alex Cora's new philosophy is taking hold, proving that even without a superstar, you can win games with the fundamentals.
You pitch well, you’re throwing strikes, the defense is going to be better. … At the end, pitching and defense are the pillars of baseball.
The star of the show at T-Mobile Park was undoubtedly Brayan Bello. The right-hander was masterful, carving up the Mariners lineup for seven shutout innings while striking out eight and allowing just three hits. He set the tone, and the offense provided the necessary support. Alex Bregman, continuing to settle in, drove in a run with a double, and rookie Roman Anthony provided the insurance with a solo shot in the seventh. Kenley Jansen slammed the door for his 14th save, sealing a victory built precisely on the blueprint Cora has been preaching.
Let's not forget the context for this sudden surge. The June 15th blockbuster that sent Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants is still fresh. While the move signaled a pivot towards the future, the current roster is playing with a chip on its shoulder. The return for Devers was significant: LHP Kyle Harrison, RHP Jordan Hicks, OF James Tibbs III, and RHP Jose Bello. While Hicks is with the major league club, the other pieces represent the next wave the front office is banking on.
Speaking of that next wave, the key prospects from the Devers deal are already making their presence felt. Top pitching prospect Kyle Harrison has been assigned to Triple-A Worcester and is slated to join their rotation soon, giving fans a nearby look at a potential future ace. Meanwhile, outfielder James Tibbs III wasted no time, lacing a double in his debut for the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs. These are the names to watch as the organization retools for sustained success.
The good news keeps coming, as the team is getting healthier. Outfielder Wilyer Abreu is swinging a bat and could return for the upcoming series in San Francisco. Reliever Nick Burdi has started his rehab assignment and could be activated as early as tomorrow. These returns, coupled with the recent recall of utility man Nate Eaton, will only add to the depth and versatility of a team that is suddenly firing on all cylinders. Closer Liam Hendriks, however, remains without a firm timetable as he begins playing catch.
Six straight wins have provided a stunning and welcome distraction from the sting of the Devers trade. But the biggest test is yet to come. The Red Sox now head to San Francisco for a series against the Giants, where they will face their former third baseman for the first time. Is this hot streak a fluke, or have the Red Sox truly found a new, sustainable identity built on the 'pillars of baseball'?
