The Red Sox will open the 2026 season with a matchup against the Reds at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, scheduled to start at 4:10 p.m. ET. This game marks an exciting beginning for both teams as they look to set the tone for the season.
Garrett Crochet, who had an impressive 2025 season with an 18-5 record, a 2.59 ERA, and 255 strikeouts, is expected to take the mound for the Red Sox. “The great thing about our spot and the rough side of it is that one year doesn’t make you a good player,” Crochet stated, emphasizing the importance of consistency in performance.
On the opposing side, the Reds will feature All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz, who is anticipated to be a key player for Cincinnati. The matchup between Crochet and the Reds’ lineup, headlined by De La Cruz, promises to be a highlight of the game.
As the game progresses, the score at the end of the fourth inning stood at Red Sox 0, Reds 0, indicating a tightly contested battle. The Red Sox lineup includes notable players such as Roman Anthony, Trevor Story, Jarren Duren, and Willson Contreras, all of whom are looking to make an impact early in the season.
However, both teams are dealing with injuries. The Red Sox have several players on the injured list, including Triston Casas and Patrick Sandoval, while the Reds are missing key players like Nick Lodolo and Hunter Greene.
The game will be broadcast on NESN and streamed on NESN 360 and Fubo, which is offering a free trial for new subscribers, allowing fans to catch the action live.
As the season unfolds, observers will be keen to see how both teams adapt to their early challenges and how players like Crochet and De La Cruz perform under pressure. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments in player conditions as the game progresses.
