It’s a rubber match afternoon at Fenway Park as the Houston Astros (13-21) take on the Boston Red Sox (13-20) in the decisive Game 3 of their weekend series. Both teams are looking to build momentum early in the season, and today’s matchup promises plenty of intrigue.
On the mound for the Astros is right-hander Cody Bolton (0-1, 5.79 ERA), making his third start and fifth appearance of the season. This will be Bolton’s first career outing at historic Fenway Park—a big moment for the young pitcher. His last time out came in relief against Baltimore, where he tossed one inning and allowed one run. Prior to that, Bolton was sidelined with mid-back inflammation after being struck by a line drive, so he’ll be eager to show he’s fully recovered.
Interestingly, Bolton has already faced the Red Sox once this season—back on March 31, when he earned his first career save by firing three innings in Houston’s 9-2 win. In that outing, he allowed three hits and one earned run while striking out five. Today marks his fourth career appearance against Boston, all of which have come in relief before this start.
Opposing him is Red Sox left-hander Ranger Suarez (2-2, 3.09 ERA), who has been solid for Boston this year. The Astros will be tested by a steady diet of left-handed pitching, as they’ve faced southpaws in all three games of this series. According to Elias, it’s the first time since April 30–May 2, 2021 (against Tampa Bay) that Houston has seen a lefty starter in every game of a three-game set. The last time they faced three consecutive left-handed starters overall was a four-game series against the Angels in September 2024.
Houston has had the upper hand against Boston lately. They swept the Red Sox in a three-game series at Daikin Park earlier this season (March 30–April 1) and now hold a 4-1 record against them in 2026. Over the past 10 seasons, the Astros are a dominant 34-23 (.596) against the Sawx.
Today is also the finale of a six-game road trip for Houston, where they’ve gone 2-3 so far. After the game, they’ll head back home for a brief three-game homestand against the Los Angeles Dodgers starting Monday. The Astros will be looking to replicate their last meeting with the Dodgers, when they swept them in a three-game series at Dodger Stadium in July 2024, outscoring LA 29-6 in the process.
In roster news, the Astros have activated right-hander Ryan Weiss from the Paternity List. In a corresponding move, right-hander Jayden Murray was optioned out.
Whether you’re gearing up for game day or just following the action, today’s rubber match is one you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for first pitch!