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Red Sox Snap Late Collapse, Contreras’ HR Wins 3-2

5/17/2026

23 1 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Boston Red Sox beat the Atlanta Braves 3–2, ending a season-long pattern of losing after trailing late.
Pedro Contreras hit a two-run home run in the eighth inning that gave Boston the lead.
Aroldis Chapman recorded his 25th consecutive save, tying him for tenth on the all-time list, saying to interpreter Carlos Villoria Benitez that hugging teammates is normal for him.

History

Historical Context

Boston’s comeback tradition began with Game 6 of the 1975 World Series, when catcher Carlton Fisk waved a 12th-inning home run into the left-field pole on October 21, 1975, tying the series. It resurfaced in the 2004 ALCS, where Boston became the first club to win a series after trailing 3-0, ending an 86-year title drought. The team’s rally spirit endures.

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Story summary

The Boston Red Sox beat the Atlanta Braves 3–2, ending a season-long pattern of losing after trailing late.
Pedro Contreras hit a two-run home run in the eighth inning that gave Boston the lead.
Aroldis Chapman recorded his 25th consecutive save, tying him for tenth on the all-time list, saying to interpreter Carlos Villoria Benitez that hugging teammates is normal for him.

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