Buehler Returns to Mound as Red Sox Aim to Clinch Series vs. Orioles
After splitting a dramatic doubleheader on Saturday at Fenway Park, the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles are set for a crucial rubber match on Sunday. With Walker Buehler getting the nod, Boston will try to close the four-game set on a high note before heading into a tough upcoming stretch.
This game will also mark the second appearance for Boston’s top prospect Marcelo Mayer, who made his MLB debut Saturday night following Alex Bregman’s injury.
Buehler Back, Looking to Make a Statement
Walker Buehler (4-1, 4.00 ERA) makes his first full start since returning from a stint on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder bursitis. His last outing ended early after an ejection in the second inning for arguing balls and strikes.
Buehler expressed regret over the incident:
“This is a team game… I let that get out of hand.”
Now, he’ll look to channel that fire into performance against a team he’s handled well in the past. Buehler owns a 1.54 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 11 2/3 innings against the Orioles across two career starts.
Explore updated pitching matchups on the MLB Odds Page.
Mayer Debuts, Bregman Hits IL
With Alex Bregman landing on the 10-day IL due to a right quad strain, the Red Sox turned to Marcelo Mayer—a highly touted infielder from their farm system.
Mayer’s 0-for-4 debut with three strikeouts was forgettable, but Boston manager Alex Cora was quick to shift focus:
“If we believe we’re good, we’ve got to keep going, keep playing good baseball, and keep winning games.”
For more on player call-ups and team transactions, visit the MLB Team Page.
Saturday’s Doubleheader: Walk-Offs, Homers, and Shaky Offense
In the day game, Boston emerged with a 6-5 win in 10 innings, thanks to Rafael Devers’ walk-off hit and Abraham Toro’s homer, his first of two on the day.
That game featured late-inning heroics and opportunistic base running as the Sox capitalized on Orioles bullpen miscues.
Orioles Rebound in the Nightcap
Baltimore responded in the nightcap with a 2-1 victory, holding Boston to just five hits. Pitching was the difference, with Lucas Giolito delivering seven scoreless innings in a losing effort due to a quiet Red Sox offense.
It was Boston’s 13th one-run loss of the season—a painful trend that’s haunted them through May.
Get more in-depth game analysis and betting tips on the MLB Picks Page.
Kremer Looks to Steady Ship for Orioles
Dean Kremer (3-5, 5.50 ERA) will take the hill for Baltimore, aiming to bounce back from a rough May. He’s allowed four earned runs in back-to-back starts, though his most recent outing—a no-decision against the Brewers—showed promise.
Kremer is 2-4 with a 5.64 ERA in nine career starts versus the Red Sox. He did pitch effectively against them earlier this season, allowing just two runs (one earned) across seven innings.
The Orioles, who just snapped an eight-game losing streak, are trying to regain their early-season rhythm after parting ways with manager Brandon Hyde. Interim skipper Tony Mansolino is still figuring out his rotation and bullpen hierarchy.
Need more data on AL East rotations and odds? Head to the MLB Expert Betting Guide.
Baltimore’s Bullpen Gives Hope
Recent bullpen performances offer optimism for Orioles fans. Trevor Rogers, Andrew Kittredge, and Seranthony Dominguez combined for eight shutout innings on Saturday—key in locking down the 2-1 win.
Kittredge, fresh off a knee procedure, has returned with back-to-back scoreless appearances and believes the team still has a shot:
“We have so much talent… It’s just a mindset change, and we can turn this around.”
What’s at Stake on Sunday?
- Red Sox: Win the series, and they build momentum without Bregman. A loss puts more pressure on their young infield core.
- Orioles: A win splits the series and provides a second straight solid pitching performance from Kremer.
With both teams hovering around .500, the margins are thin—and every series win matters.
For live odds movement and prop trends, check the MLB Odds Page.

FAQs
Who is starting for Boston on Sunday?
Right-hander Walker Buehler (4-1, 4.00 ERA), coming off a short start due to ejection.
Who is starting for the Orioles?
Dean Kremer (3-5, 5.50 ERA), looking to bounce back from recent rough outings.
Why did Marcelo Mayer make his debut?
He was called up after Alex Bregman was placed on the 10-day IL with a quad strain.
How has Boston performed in one-run games?
They’ve lost 13 one-run games this season, including Saturday’s nightcap.
What’s the Red Sox-Orioles season series score?
It’s even heading into Sunday’s series finale.
Where can I find premium betting picks for this matchup?
Visit the MLB Expert Betting Guide and Picks Page for projections.