MLB Game Preview: New York Mets (29-19) vs. Boston Red Sox (24-25)

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The New York Mets and Boston Red Sox face off in the second game of their three-game interleague series on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. The Red Sox took Game 1 with a 3-1 victory, scoring three runs in the first two innings off Mets’ ace Kodai Senga. Now, the Mets look to bounce back and even the series.

Game Details

  • Matchup: New York Mets (29-19) vs. Boston Red Sox (24-25)
  • Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  • Time: 6:45 PM ET
  • Venue: Fenway Park, Boston, MA
  • TV Broadcast: ESPN, MLB Network

Starting Pitchers

New York Mets: Clay Holmes (RHP)

  • Season Stats: 3-2, 3.45 ERA, 48.2 IP, 52 K, 1.18 WHIP
  • Analysis: Holmes has been solid in his last three starts, allowing just four earned runs over 18 innings. His ability to limit walks and induce ground balls will be key against Boston’s aggressive lineup.

Boston Red Sox: Walker Buehler (RHP)

  • Season Stats: 4-3, 3.78 ERA, 55.1 IP, 61 K, 1.22 WHIP
  • Analysis: Buehler has been Boston’s most reliable starter, showcasing elite strikeout ability. He dominated in his last outing, pitching seven scoreless innings against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Team Breakdown

New York Mets

The Mets enter this game looking to rebound after their offense struggled in Game 1. Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso have been the team’s top hitters, but the lineup has cooled off in recent games.

  • Key Players:
  • Francisco Lindor: .265 AVG, 9 HR, 28 RBI
  • Pete Alonso: .278 AVG, 12 HR, 34 RBI
  • Brett Baty: 7-for-29, 4 HR in last 10 games

The Mets’ pitching staff ranks 8th in the NL with a 3.92 ERA, but their bullpen has been inconsistent.

Boston Red Sox

Boston’s offense came alive early in Game 1, with Jarren Duran leading the charge. The Red Sox have been strong at home, posting a 13-11 record at Fenway Park.

  • Key Players:
  • Alex Bregman: 17 doubles, 11 HR, 35 RBI
  • Rafael Devers: .405 AVG, 3 HR, 13 RBI in last 10 games
  • Jarren Duran: 2-for-4, 1 RBI in Game 1

Boston’s pitching staff ranks 9th in the AL with a 4.10 ERA, but their bullpen has struggled to close out games.

Key Matchups

Clay Holmes vs. Boston’s Left-Handed Hitters

  • Holmes relies on sinkers and sliders, which could neutralize Boston’s left-handed bats like Devers and Duran.
  • If Holmes can induce ground balls, he’ll limit Boston’s scoring chances.

Walker Buehler vs. Mets’ Power Hitters

  • Buehler has been dominant against right-handed hitters, which could make things tough for Alonso and Lindor.
  • If the Mets can work deep counts, they may force Buehler out early.

Boston’s Bullpen vs. Mets’ Late-Inning Offense

  • Boston’s bullpen has struggled with blown saves, which could give the Mets an opportunity late in the game.
  • If the Mets can stay close heading into the 8th inning, they have a chance to steal a win.

Game Outlook

Boston enters as the slight favorite, given their home-field advantage and Buehler’s strong form. However, the Mets have the better overall record and could bounce back if their offense finds rhythm.

If Boston scores early again, they’ll have the edge. But if the Mets can get to Buehler and force Boston’s bullpen into action, they could even the series.

Game Odds

New York Mets                 – 130

Boston Red Sox                 9

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, May 19, 2025

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