In a critical three-game series leading up to the All-Star break, the Boston Red Sox are determined to bounce back against the Kansas City Royals. After suffering a 6-1 defeat in the opening game at Fenway Park on Friday night, Red Sox slugger Tyler O'Neill emphasized the importance of this series.

The Royals, currently tied with the Red Sox for the third and final AL Wild Card spot, have been formidable contenders throughout the season. O'Neill acknowledged their strong performance, expressing his desire to emerge victorious against a team in the playoff hunt. He emphasized that the series holds significant weight for the Red Sox.

Boston's matchup against left-handed starters has proven to be a recurring challenge. With a disappointing 12-15 record against such pitchers, compared to an impressive 39-27 when facing right-handed starters, the Red Sox are keen to address this issue. Their struggles were particularly evident in Friday's game against All-Star lefty Cole Ragans, who stifled the Red Sox offense, allowing just one run and four hits while striking out seven in seven innings.

Manager Alex Cora acknowledged the prowess of left-handed hitters Rob Refsnyder, Connor Wong, and O'Neill, who have been consistently putting together quality at-bats against southpaws. However, Cora highlighted the lower production from left-handed sluggers Rafael Devers and Jarren Duran in these matchups.

Boston currently ranks 17th in the majors in batting average, 12th in on-base percentage, and 17th in slugging percentage against left-handed pitchers. Cora expressed the team's determination to find a solution to this challenge, citing the need for patience and perseverance.

Devers, the Red Sox's All-Star third baseman, struggled against Ragans, going 1-for-4 with two strikeouts. His overall performance against left-handers this season has been underwhelming, batting just .241 with a .303 on-base percentage, .398 slugging percentage, and a .701 OPS. In contrast, Devers has been dominant against right-handers, hitting .289 with a .372 on-base percentage, .577 slugging percentage, and a .949 OPS.

Following the game, Devers declined to speak with the media, a trend that has occurred on multiple occasions after losses this season. Cora remained optimistic about his standout third baseman's production against lefties, foreseeing an improvement in Devers' performance.

When asked about the team's struggles against left-handed pitchers, O'Neill remained unfazed, emphasizing their strong lineup and depth. He attributed the recent challenges to facing tough pitching and formidable opponents, highlighting the need for continuous improvement.

As the Red Sox continue their quest for a postseason berth, they are focused on navigating the difficulties posed by left-handed pitchers. With the series against the Royals holding crucial implications, the Red Sox are determined to find a way to overcome this recurring challenge and secure victories in their pursuit of a playoff spot.