The Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs have adjusted their final regular-season series due to an impending nor'easter expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the Boston area. Originally scheduled to conclude on Sunday, the series will now feature a split doubleheader on Friday, September 25, with games at 1:05 p.m. and 6:05 p.m. Eastern Time. Saturday's game remains scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET, though further adjustments may occur based on weather conditions. (wbur.org)
This scheduling change comes as both teams are in critical positions regarding postseason play. The Red Sox have secured a playoff berth and are finalizing their Wild Card seeding. The Cubs are in a tight race for one of the National League's Wild Card spots, making these games pivotal for their postseason aspirations. (chicago.suntimes.com)
In response to the compressed schedule, the Cubs requested an additional roster spot to manage their pitching staff during the doubleheader. However, Major League Baseball denied this request, leaving the team to navigate the demanding schedule with their current roster. (thebiglead.com)
The approaching storm has also raised the possibility of relocating games to alternative venues, such as Tropicana Field in Tampa, Florida, if weather conditions render Fenway Park unplayable. MLB and both teams are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the series is completed without disrupting the postseason schedule. (heavy.com)