Matt Barnes put in high leverage situation against the Rays, earns first save of the season
It’s been a long time since Matt Barnes was asked to earn a save in a high leverage situation for the Red Sox. On Friday night, the embattled reliever who struggled mightily at the end of last season earned his first save of 2022.
With runners on first and third, interim Red Sox manager Will Venable called upon Barnes to face red hot Wander Franco.
The Rays power hitting shortstop had already hit two home runs in the game. Franco was looking to send the Rays home with a win.
Barnes was able to retire Franco who grounded out to second baseman Trevor Story who had to range to his left to make the game-saving play.
The wild ninth inning came to an end and the Red Sox earned a much needed 4-3 victory from Tropicana Field.
After the game, Venable told reporters why he went with Barnes to close the door in the ninth inning.
“We talked about it early in the inning, just kind of as we were mapping things out that was kind of the matchup that we knew it was gonna be, a two-out, bases loaded opportunity,” Venable said.
“If we got to that point we knew it might be some at-bats for Jake that were tougher, which they were. Ultimately, Barnes came in and did a great job,” added Venable.
Barnes is working towards earning manager Alex Cora’s confidence back and regain the closer role. To begin the season, Cora has been operating with a closer-by-committee approach.
“But I would love with time somebody step up or we feel comfortable with certain guys that ‘Here we go. Let’s do it,’” Cora said.
“I’ve been saying all along, for me, if Matty (Barnes) gets to where we want to and we do believe he’s very close, it will be great for him to get that ninth inning because he can get lefties and righties out. And then we have the luxury to mix and match from the fifth inning on.”
Follow Chris on Twitter @ChrisHenrique
For additional Red Sox and Major League Baseball content, follow Beyond the Monster: Boston Red Sox on Twitter @BeyondtheMnstr
Follow our newest Twitter handle, @SoxDingrs for Red Sox and Major League Baseball home runs. Check out @SoxSpects for coverage and content on Red Sox and MLB prospects.