Alex Gamboa Earned Hold in Red Sox Victory
The relief pitcher secured his second hold of the season while pitching against the Texas Rangers.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Baseball
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Alex Gamboa recorded his second hold of the season for the Boston Red Sox on September 18, 2026, by pitching two-thirds of an inning against the Texas Rangers. Entering in the eighth inning with a one-run lead, he allowed one hit and no runs while inducing a critical double-play groundout.
Why it matters
Gamboa has assumed a high-leverage role in the Boston bullpen following injuries, including a stiff lat muscle that kept closer Aroldis Chapman out of the game. His performance is a key factor as he vies for a final spot on the team's postseason roster.
Gamboa maintained a 1.21 ERA through 19 appearances this season, contributing to an 83-70 team record. He logged two-thirds of an inning against Texas to earn his second hold of the year.
The players
Alex Gamboa
He is a relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who previously played for the Lotte Giants in South Korea during the 2025 season.
Aroldis Chapman
He is a professional baseball pitcher currently serving as a closer for the Boston Red Sox.
Hobie Moran
He is a professional baseball player competing for a final roster spot on the Boston Red Sox.
The details
Gamboa, who was drafted by the LA Dodgers in 2019 and played for the Lotte Giants in 2025, stepped in for the Red Sox during a high-leverage late-inning situation. He successfully navigated the eighth inning without surrendering a run, keeping Boston ahead in a pivotal stretch of the season.
Timeline
2019: Gamboa was drafted by the LA Dodgers.
August 22, 2026: Gamboa earned his first hold of the season.
September 18, 2026: Gamboa earned his second hold against Texas.
Season Trajectory
This performance impacts the internal competition for postseason bullpen depth as Boston maintains a five-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians. Gamboa must prove his consistency against rivals like Hobie Moran to secure a place on the playoff roster.
Gamboa's usage indicates he is being groomed for high-leverage situations during the final stretch of the season. His role in inducing double plays could prove vital for Boston's defensive stability as the team approaches the postseason.
The takeaway
Gamboa provides a valuable alternative in a bullpen currently managing injuries to key players. His recent efficiency suggests he is a viable candidate for the team's upcoming postseason rotation.
Further reading
For more on the team's current standings and roster moves, visit Boston Baseball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 조선일보.
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