Boston opens a big early lead as the first team with two grand slams in a playoff game and now goes back to Fenway Park for Game 3 after a 9-5 win.

McCullers left his last start in the ALDS with forearm tightness and will not pitch against the Red Sox.

Chris Sale will pitch Friday against the Astros, and Nathan Eovaldi is scheduled to start Game 2 on Saturday.

It is expected Nathan Eovaldi will start Game 1 for Boston, and all except the first two starters will be in the bullpen.

Boston’s Alex Cora has won every postseason series he has managed, and has this Red Sox team in a good place as it prepares for the ALCS.

The underdog Red Sox advanced to the ALCS by eliminating a 100-win Tampa Bay team, and along the way have given fans a season to enjoy.

Boston squanders a 5-0 lead, but beats Tampa Bay 6-5 in the ninth on Kiké Hernandez’s sacrifice fly. Next up: the Astros or White Sox.

Nick Pivetta pitches four scoreless innings of relief, and Christian Vazquez’s two-run homer gives Boston a 6-4 win.

Randy Arozarena homers and steals home, Shane McClanahan throws five scoreless innings and the bullpen backs him up as the Rays shut out Boston.

The Red Sox will have their hands full with Tampa Bay, which has been the best team in the American League the past two seasons.