But, with the team in first place, Manager Alex Cora can’t wait around for younger players to make vital contributions.

Matt Barnes blows a save for the first time this season, giving up a two-out bloop single to Mike Trout and a home run around the Pesky Pole by Shohei Ohtani in a 6-5 loss.

Xander Bogaerts, Alex Verdugo and Rafael Devers pace the offense, and Martin Perez combines with three relievers on a four-hitter in a 9-0 victory.

Bobby Dalbec’s two-run homer enables Boston to bounce back after blowing a lead, and Matt Barnes strikes out the side in the ninth to close out a 4-3 win.

Xander Bogaerts and Bobby Dalbec each hit two-run home runs as Boston bashes Oakland, 8-1.

Eduardo Rodriguez allows four runs, one on a balk, as Boston loses its third straight.

Chris Bassitt strikes out a season-high 10 over seven innings as Oakland beats Boston in a matchup of American League division leaders.

First baseman Triston Casas is off to a slow start with Portland, while outfielder Jarren Duran is getting hot with Worcester.

Boston has been taking a disciplined approach at the plate while leading the major leagues in key offensive categories.

Boston manages just four hits and Baltimore scores three runs in two innings off reliever Matt Andriese to get a 4-1 win.