The Boston Red Sox slammed their way through their most wins in April ever.
Xander Bogaerts hit a grand slam over the Green Monster and Boston finished April by beating the Kansas City Royals 10-6 on Monday night.
It was Boston’s sixth slam of the season — all coming in April — and tied them with 1996 Montreal Expos for most ever in the majors by May 1. The Red Sox didn’t even hit one last season.
“I didn’t hit a grand slam in my career, it’s not because of me,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said, breaking into a smile.
Bogaerts had a simple answer.
“Especially with the bases loaded, we’re getting some good swings,” he said. “I think we’ve been really selective and looking for some good pitches to hit.”
Despite playing, at times, in lousy conditions at home — like Monday night when it was chilly night with temperatures in the mid-40s and a light rain falling most of the game — the Red Sox offense continues to hit homers unlike the team that was last in the AL in 2017.
“It’s not the best weather to play in,” Bogaerts said. “But, it’s playable.”
Whit Merrifield had three hits and two RBIs for the Royals, who were coming off their first consecutive wins this season.
Hector Velazquez (4-0), the first of three relievers, worked two scoreless innings of relief for the victory.
Trailing 3-0, Boston scored a run in the second on Moreland’s homer and five off Jason Hammel (0-3) in a third inning highlighted by Bogaerts’ slam that completely left Fenway Park. Moreland drew a bases-loaded walk for the other run.
Boston fell in the 3-0 hole in the first when starter Eduardo Rodriguez gave up three runs on three walks, two singles and a hit batsman.
UP NEXT —Red Sox: LHP Chris Sale (2-1, 2.31) looks to continue his strong run, having allowed three or fewer runs — one or less four times — in his initial six starts.
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