Boston Red Sox vs New York Mets Picks and Predictions May 20th 2025

Red Sox Turn to Returning Buehler to Seal Series Against Mets

If you’re not paying attention from pitch one, you might just miss Jarren Duran doing something electrifying. The Boston Red Sox outfielder is becoming a highlight machine, and his spark at the top of the order has been instrumental in Boston’s recent run of form.

In Monday’s series opener against the New York Mets, Duran opened the game with a leadoff double and followed up with an RBI triple in the second inning — his sixth triple of the season and 20th since the start of 2024, both tying for the MLB lead. These back-to-back extra-base hits extended his hitting streak to six games and helped fuel a 3-1 victory.

“When he has nights like that, we usually come out on top,” said bench coach Ramon Vazquez, who served as acting manager with Alex Cora away attending his daughter’s graduation. “He’s a difference-maker. His aggression, his energy — it sets the tone for the whole team.”

With Duran rolling, the Red Sox are looking to clinch an interleague series win on Tuesday against a struggling Mets squad. For up-to-date lineup info and statistical trends, check the MLB Team Page.

Walker Buehler Expected to Make Return from IL

The rotation is about to get a much-needed jolt. While it hasn’t been officially confirmed, all signs point to Walker Buehler making his return from the 15-day injured list on Tuesday night. Sidelined since April 26 with shoulder bursitis, Buehler has been gradually building back strength, recently throwing a three-inning simulated game with positive results.

Prior to his IL stint, Buehler had won three straight starts and allowed three earned runs or fewer in four consecutive outings — solidifying himself as a reliable top-of-the-rotation arm for Boston. His return couldn’t come at a better time.

“It’s one of those injuries where if it were September, we might have pushed through it,” Buehler admitted. “But it’s early. We decided to play it smart.”

The right-hander is 1-1 with a 5.00 ERA in five career starts against the Mets, though he hasn’t faced them since 2022. Tuesday will be a prime opportunity for him to re-establish dominance and help Boston continue its push in a tightly contested AL East.

To see how Buehler’s return affects odds and betting angles, head over to the updated MLB Odds Page.

Boston’s Pitching Seeks Balance Between Starters and Bullpen

Boston’s pitching staff has been a tale of two halves lately. Over the past five games, Red Sox starters have struggled, allowing 21 runs across 25 innings — that’s a 7.56 ERA. On the flip side, the bullpen has been airtight, surrendering just six runs in 19 2/3 innings (2.75 ERA).

Bringing Buehler back into the mix could help stabilize a rotation in desperate need of consistency. The hope is that he can eat innings and prevent the bullpen from being overtaxed as the Red Sox gear up for a long summer stretch.

Stay on top of Boston’s rotation plans and pitching trends with daily insights from the Expert Betting Guide.

Mets Reeling After Tough Stretch, Look to Regroup

On the other side, the Mets come into Tuesday’s game having dropped four of their last five. After a grueling Subway Series with the Yankees over the weekend, they struggled to find any offensive rhythm against Boston in Game 1.

New York went just 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. Their top six hitters managed only two hits total — both off the Green Monster, one each from Juan Soto and Pete Alonso.

Soto’s hit, a deep fly ball, would’ve been a double had he hustled out of the box. Instead, he coasted into first, and manager Carlos Mendoza took notice.

“I wasn’t happy about that,” Mendoza said postgame. “That’s not the effort we need from one of our leaders.”

Pete Alonso, meanwhile, was thrown out trying to stretch his hit into a double, killing what little momentum the Mets had going.

Soto responded with humility. “This is a game of failure. You’ve got to keep moving forward,” he said. “Some days you’re gonna miss. That’s just baseball.”

For daily picks and insight into the Mets’ betting profile, visit the MLB Pick Page.

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Clay Holmes to Start for Mets in Familiar Territory

The Mets will hand the ball to Clay Holmes, who’s transitioning from a bullpen role into a starting one. The former Yankees closer is no stranger to Boston, having pitched against them 20 times with a 4-1 record, four saves, and a 3.54 ERA.

However, Tuesday marks Holmes’ first career start against the Red Sox — a new challenge, especially with Boston’s top of the order heating up.

Holmes had been riding high with three straight wins before taking a loss last Wednesday against Pittsburgh, when he gave up four runs over six innings — including two homers. Still, his 5-2 record and 3.14 ERA show he’s adjusted well to the starting role.

His ability to limit extra-base hits and induce groundballs could be key to slowing down Boston’s dynamic top order, particularly the surging Duran.

Want to understand how Holmes matches up against Boston’s lineup? Visit the Expert Betting Guide for advanced stats and projections.

What’s at Stake: Momentum for June Push

Tuesday’s game is bigger than just another midweek matchup. For Boston, it’s a chance to win their third straight series, gain ground in the AL East, and bring balance back to their rotation.

For the Mets, it’s an opportunity to snap out of a funk and prove that their offense can respond under pressure. With Soto and Alonso slumping, it’s critical for role players to step up and produce — otherwise, New York risks falling further out of contention.

Whether you’re scouting for fantasy baseball or looking to bet, this matchup is full of potential x-factors.

FAQs

Is Walker Buehler officially starting for the Red Sox?
While it hasn’t been confirmed, Buehler is expected to return from the injured list and start Tuesday’s game. He last pitched on April 26.

How hot is Jarren Duran right now?
Duran has a six-game hit streak and leads the league in triples since 2024 began. He had two extra-base hits in Monday’s win.

What’s Clay Holmes’ history against Boston?
Holmes has a 4-1 record, four saves, and a 3.54 ERA in 20 appearances against the Red Sox — but Tuesday will be his first start against them.

Why are the Mets struggling lately?
Inconsistent offense and poor execution with runners in scoring position have plagued the Mets, who’ve lost four of their last five games.

How has Boston’s bullpen performed recently?
The Red Sox bullpen has been sharp, posting a 2.75 ERA over the past five games. In contrast, starters have struggled with a 7.56 ERA in the same span.

Where can I get expert picks for the Red Sox vs. Mets game?
Head over to the MLB Pick Page for trusted predictions, betting breakdowns, and matchup analysis.