MLB Shifts Red Sox-Cubs Series Ahead of Coming Nor’easter
One game has already been moved, and more changes are possible.
The MLB has taken action to address the severe weather forecasted for the upcoming Cubs-Red Sox series in Boston, a move that has not been without its challenges. In consultation with the teams, the league decided to shift Sunday's game to the first half of a split doubleheader, with the afternoon session beginning at 6:05 p.m. ET.
This move was made to accommodate a nor'easter expected to hit New England, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding. Given the postseason implications of the series, with both teams holding crucial playoff spots, the decision carries significant weight. The Cubs are currently second in the National League Wild Card standings and hold the fifth overall playoff seed, while the Red Sox sit in the American League with the fifth seed, likely to begin their playoff run against the Yankees.
However, the weather forecast for Saturday still poses a threat to the series finale. Cubs manager Craig Counsell is dissatisfied with the schedule adjustments, which impact his pitching rotation, and he has expressed concerns about having a player ready to pitch on short rest. The Cubs are considering options such as having left-hander Shota Imanaga pitch on short rest or opting for a bullpen game.
As alternatives, moving part or all of the series to a neutral site is still under consideration, particularly for the Saturday game, though MLB has been cautious about this option, typically reserving it for more extreme weather scenarios. MLB officials are mindful of the need to balance all parties' interests, but acknowledge that some compromises may result in less than ideal outcomes.
Written by urgent.news from Front Office Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
