Boston Red SoxOpen full analysisVSNew York MetsOpen full analysis

The Boston Red Sox defeated the New York Mets 3–2 on July 12 at Citi Field in a low-scoring affair that fell well short of Vegas's 8.5-run total line. Boston's pitching staff dominated, striking out 14 Mets batters while allowing just six hits and a 3.59 ERA, though the Red Sox managed only four hits themselves. The Mets struggled offensively, posting a .684 OPS with 14 strikeouts and just one home run despite drawing a walk; they also committed two errors that contributed to their downfall. Boston capitalized on limited opportunities, converting four walks and three hits into three runs, while New York's lone homer and two RBIs proved insufficient. The game exemplified a pitching-heavy matchup where the Red Sox's superior arms—particularly their strikeout rate—made the difference despite both lineups operating below their season averages. Boston's ability to manufacture runs from walks and timely contact suggests their pitching depth could carry them through tight divisional contests.