The Boston Red Sox might be facing their second rainout of this homestand on Thursday, as the forecast for their series finale against the Philadelphia Phillies at Fenway Park is looking grim. Scheduled for a 6:45 p.m. first pitch, the game is hanging in the balance with heavy rain expected to roll in.
Interim manager Chad Tracy didn't mince words after Wednesday's 3-1 win, saying, "So far, I've heard it doesn't look good." He added with a shrug, "I hear that a lot. But we'll come in a little later, just be ready to play and see what happens."
The National Weather Service is predicting a 90% chance of precipitation, with rain potentially heavy at times and temperatures dropping to around 49°F. The odds of rain are highest between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., peaking at 97%, before tapering off slightly later in the evening. That's a tough window for a ballgame.
The Red Sox released a statement at 4:46 p.m., noting they're working with MLB and multiple weather services to decide the game's fate. "Rain showers are expected in the Fenway area over the next couple of hours with conditions improving later tonight," the statement read. "With the Phillies not scheduled to return to Fenway Park this season, every effort will be made to play tonight's game."
This adds an extra layer of urgency. The Phillies won't be back in Boston during the 2026 season, so finding a makeup date is tricky. Both teams share several mutual off days, including May 21, June 11, and dates in July, August, and September. However, Philadelphia is slated for a West Coast trip through Anaheim and Seattle on Aug. 27, ruling that out.
If the weather cooperates and the game goes on, fans will see an intriguing matchup. Left-hander Ranger Suarez (2-2, 2.77 ERA) is set to start for the Red Sox against his former team. Suarez spent 2018 through 2025 with the Phillies, posting a solid 3.38 ERA over 187 appearances. On the mound for Philadelphia will be lefty Jesús Luzardo (3-3, 5.77 ERA), looking to keep the Phillies rolling.
For now, all eyes are on the sky. Whether you're heading to Fenway or watching from home, keep that rain gear handy—and maybe plan for a doubleheader down the road.
