Context:

Rafael Devers led the Boston Red Sox to a 5-0 victory over the Texas Rangers by hitting a home run and driving in two runs. The Red Sox's pitching staff, comprising five pitchers, delivered a five-hit shutout, marking their third shutout of the season. Bryan Bello, the starter for Boston, was replaced by the bullpen after encountering control issues, but not before limiting the Rangers to minimal scoring opportunities. Justin Slaten secured the win with scoreless relief, while Garrett Whitlock and Liam Hendricks successfully preserved the shutout. The Rangers' struggles continued as they lost nine of their last 12 games, with starting pitcher Jack Leiter allowing four runs and four walks over 5.1 innings.

Dive Deeper:

• Rafael Devers contributed significantly to the Red Sox victory by hitting a solo home run in the seventh inning and earlier driving in a run with a single in the fifth inning, showcasing his offensive prowess.

• Boston's pitching staff executed a combined five-hit shutout, a testament to their collaborative strength on the mound, with contributions from Bryan Bello, Justin Slaten, Garrett Whitlock, and Liam Hendricks.

• Bryan Bello, Boston's starting pitcher, encountered control issues with five walks but managed to limit the Rangers' scoring chances before being relieved, maintaining a commendable ERA of 1.10 at Fenway Park this season.

• Justin Slaten was instrumental in maintaining the shutout, earning the win by pitching 1.1 scoreless innings, while Garrett Whitlock faced a tense seventh inning yet managed to escape trouble without conceding a run.

• The Texas Rangers' offense was stifled, managing only five hits with No. 9 hitter Tucker Barnhart accounting for two of them, contributing to their extended slump over recent games.

• Red Sox took advantage of Jack Leiter's control problems, scoring two runs in the second inning through strategic plays including a wild pitch and a grounder, capitalizing on the opportunities presented.

• The upcoming games see Texas facing Detroit, with Patrick Corbin starting, while Boston embarks on a road trip starting with a game against Kansas City, where Hunter Dobbins is expected to pitch.