Nick Sogard is heating up at just the right time, and the Red Sox farm system is buzzing with energy. On Thursday, the infielder launched a solo home run to put the Worcester Red Sox ahead early against the Buffalo Bisons, but the WooSox ultimately fell 4-3. Sogard has been on a tear, logging four multi-hit games in his last six outings. Over his past eight games, he's slashing an impressive .379/.474/.724 with two homers and seven RBI. With the big league club searching for a spark, Sogard's hot streak couldn't come at a better moment.
The Bisons struck back in the second inning, scoring all four of their runs off starter Jake Bennett, who allowed seven hits and four runs over 3 1/3 innings. But the Worcester bullpen held strong, with Seth Martinez, Noah Song, and Tayron Guerrero combining for 4 2/3 scoreless frames. A late rally nearly flipped the script, as Mikey Romero crushed a two-run homer in the ninth to cut the deficit to one. Sogard and Nate Eaton each collected two hits, while Kristian Campbell showed patience at the plate with three walks.
Down in Double-A, the Portland Sea Dogs grabbed a win behind a monster performance from Ahbram Liendo. The prospect hammered his first home run of the season as part of a three-hit day, driving in three runs and swiping a bag. Marvin Alcantara also went deep with a solo shot of his own. On the mound, starter Blake Wehunt struck out seven over 3 1/3 innings against the Hartford Yard Goats, while reliever Max Carlson earned the win and Cooper Adams locked down a two-inning save. The Sea Dogs are back in action Friday at 7:10 p.m., with John Holobetz (1-3, 5.40 ERA) taking the ball.
The Greenville Drive couldn't quite get their bats going against the Bowling Green Hot Rods, managing eight hits but only pushing across a meaningless run in the ninth. Henry Godbout led the way with a 3-for-5 day, while Antonio Anderson added two hits and an RBI. Starter Dylan Brown turned in a solid outing, striking out seven over five innings while allowing just two runs in his second start since being promoted. The Drive will send Marcus Phillips (0-2, 7.64 ERA) to the mound Friday at 6:45 p.m.
Over in Salem, the RidgeYaks got on the board early thanks to a solo shot from Enddy Azocar, setting the tone for a strong day. Strong starting pitching continues to be a theme across the system, giving fans plenty to watch as these prospects develop. With Sogard leading the charge, the Red Sox farm system is showing it has the depth to make some noise this season.