The Boston Red Sox made quick work of the Houston Astros in Sunday's matinee, cruising to a decisive 6-1 victory behind a masterful performance from Lucas Giolito and a relentless offensive attack. Giolito dominated over eight innings, allowing just three hits and one run—a solo shot from Carlos Correa—while striking out four. The right-hander carved through Houston's lineup with precision, throwing 67 of his 103 pitches for strikes and lowering his ERA to 3.57. Meanwhile, Boston's bats came alive early, with Ceddanne Rafaela leading the charge—going a perfect 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Trevor Story added two hits and an RBI of his own, while Wilyer Abreu's sacrifice fly in the fifth extended the lead to 5-0, effectively putting the game out of reach.

The Astros never found their rhythm, with ace Framber Valdez uncharacteristically struggling through six innings, surrendering five runs on seven hits. Houston's lone bright spot was Correa's solo homer in the sixth, but it was far too little against a Red Sox team that capitalized on every opportunity. The win marks Boston's third straight and keeps their playoff push alive, while the Astros—held to just four hits—head home searching for answers after a lackluster road trip.