Boston Red Sox vs Baltimore Orioles Picks and Predictions May 23rd 2025

Rainout Forces Orioles, Red Sox into Friday Doubleheader

Mother Nature had other plans Thursday, postponing the series opener between the Boston Red Sox and visiting Baltimore Orioles. Now, the teams will kick off their weekend showdown with a day-night doubleheader on Friday at Fenway Park.

It’s a crucial set for both clubs. The Red Sox are trying to regain consistency amid offensive and pitching concerns, while the Orioles are attempting to move forward after a dramatic week—one that included a managerial change and the snapping of a prolonged losing streak.

Orioles Snap Skid, Find Relief Under New Skipper

It’s been a rollercoaster for the Orioles, but Wednesday night offered a breather. Interim manager Tony Mansolino, who stepped in after Brandon Hyde was dismissed, captured his first win—a gritty 8-4 extra-inning victory over the Brewers.

“We win the game and everybody is congratulating me… but it’s more for the players and the organization,” Mansolino said postgame.

That win ended an eight-game skid and gave Baltimore its first taste of victory since May 11.

Keep up with Orioles’ team trends on the MLB Team Page.

Rutschman Delivers a Statement Homer

Adley Rutschman made sure the moment counted, launching a three-run home run in the 11th inning to seal the victory. It couldn’t have come at a better time—or on a better date. Wednesday marked the third anniversary of his MLB debut.

Rutschman emphasized the unity in the clubhouse:
“You never know what form adversity will take… There’s no other group I’d rather be around.”

Meanwhile, Ryan O’Hearn chipped in with a four-hit night, signaling that the Orioles offense may be waking up just in time for Fenway.

Game 1: Povich vs Bello

Baltimore’s Cade Povich (1-3, 5.23 ERA) will take the mound for the early game on Friday. His last outing was promising—5 2/3 innings of two-run ball against the Nationals with nine strikeouts.

Povich is still finding his footing at the MLB level. In three career starts against Boston, he’s 0-2 with a 5.28 ERA. His most recent matchup with the Sox came on March 31, when he surrendered three runs over 4 1/3 innings in a no-decision.

On the Boston side, Brayan Bello (2-1, 4.02 ERA) will counter. Bello’s season has taken a frustrating turn. He hasn’t completed five innings in his last three outings and allowed a season-high seven runs his last time out.

“My changeup is my strikeout pitch… and I can’t locate it,” Bello said, pointing to command issues.

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Game 2: Giolito Back in Spotlight

Boston will hand the ball to Lucas Giolito (1-1, 7.08 ERA) for the nightcap. The right-hander has had a rocky start to 2025. His last appearance lasted just four innings, allowing six runs—including three home runs.

“They need to step up. That’s the bottom line,” manager Alex Cora said of the rotation.

Giolito is on a personal three-game win streak but owns a 5.19 ERA in five career starts against Baltimore.

As of now, the Orioles have not announced their Game 2 starter.

Red Sox Struggling to Find Their Groove

Boston has dropped six of its last nine and continues to fight for consistency at the plate. In Wednesday’s 5-1 loss to the Mets, they struck out 16 times—their highest total this season—and scored only once for the ninth time in 2025.

Only Jarren Duran, Rafael Devers, and Alex Bregman have provided somewhat steady offense. First baseman Nick Sogard has been a surprise contributor, collecting multiple hits in three of his last six games.

Manager Cora is still searching for the right lineup formula:
“We’ve been moving guys around… trying to find the perfect match.”

Check out the Red Sox Team Page for more stats and updates.

What to Watch Friday

The rare day-night doubleheader promises action on multiple fronts. Here’s what fans should keep an eye on:

Can the Orioles keep building momentum?
Wednesday’s win stopped the bleeding, but facing a tough environment like Fenway will test their resolve.

Will Boston’s starters provide length?
With bullpen fatigue a factor, the Red Sox desperately need deep outings from both Bello and Giolito.

Is the O’s offense officially back?
Rutschman and O’Hearn showed signs of life. Will others follow?

Can Boston find lineup balance?
Mixing and matching can work—but not without run production. Friday’s games could force more changes.

FAQs

Why was Thursday’s game between the Orioles and Red Sox postponed?
It was postponed due to rain. The teams will play a split doubleheader on Friday.

Who is starting for the Orioles in Game 1?
Left-hander Cade Povich, who is 1-3 with a 5.23 ERA this season.

Who is Boston’s starter in the first game?
Brayan Bello, who is 2-1 but has struggled to locate his changeup in recent outings.

What’s the Red Sox pitching plan for Game 2?
Lucas Giolito is scheduled to start. He has a 7.08 ERA and has struggled with long balls.

Who’s managing the Orioles now?
Tony Mansolino is the interim manager following Brandon Hyde’s dismissal.

Where can I get odds and picks for both games?
Visit the Expert Betting Guide for game-by-game breakdowns and betting angles.