Franchy Cordero's grand slam keeps the momentum going for the surging Red Sox
Cordero's walk-off grand slam was the second slam the Sox hit in the four game series against the Mariners
Franchy Cordero hit a massive walk-off grand slam on Sunday afternoon and the Red Sox swept the Seattle Mariners at Fenway Park.
After struggling to start the season, the Red Sox have slowly begun to flip the switch. Boston is playing their best baseball of the year and are captivating Red Sox fans each big base hit, home run into the Green Monster seats and walk-off at a time.
Cordero’s grand slam on Sunday capped off a huge homestead and is providing massive momentum for a team looking to get back into playoff contention.
After leading the game and heading into the ninth, Hansel Robles blew the save opportunity allowing the Mariners to tie the game.
Jake Diekman came into to pitch in extra innings and allowed the Mariners to take a 4-3 lead. Despite winning the last four in a row, had the Sox lost on Sunday, it felt like all momentum gained in the standings and clubhouse would be erased.
Kiké Hernández’s RBI single in the bottom of the 10th started the rally. However, the unlikely hero in Cordero provided the dramatic grand slam.
“That was a huge homestand for us,” said Christian Arroyo, who belted a huge homer on Sunday. “That was a huge sweep. It’s hard to sweep in the big leagues in a three-game series, let alone a four game series against a really good Seattle Mariners team.”
Cordero has played well since his call up from Triple-A Worcester. He currently owns a three-game hitting streak and has raised his average to .231 on the season. The left-handed slugger has begun to provide offense at first base, a position that has been void of offensive production this season.
After being designated for assignment last season, the 27-year-old Cordero has begun to win the admiration of Red Sox fans. Cordero’s power potential is there and if he can get consistent at-bats he could be the short-term answer at first base. His grand slam on Sunday helps keep him in the conversation as a bat that needs to remain in the lineup.
“I told you, he’s going to start hitting the ball in the air and good things are going to happen,” said Red Sox manager Alex Cora.
The Red Sox are hot right now, but no matter how good they are playing, we can’t say it. Not until June 28th.
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