Ceddanne Rafaela launched his first career grand slam in the sixth inning on Monday, propelling the Boston Red Sox to a 4-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California.
The 40-degree popup off right-hander Jack Perkins traveled 98 miles per hour off the bat. It tipped off left fielder Colby Thomas's glove before clearing the outfield wall.
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Perkins had held Boston hitless through five innings despite three walks and a hit batter.
Connor Wong broke up the no-hit bid with a lead-off double into the left-field corner, setting the stage for Rafaela's heroics.
Interim manager Chad Tracy expressed familiarity with the venue before the game. "Played a lot of games here.
Hit some home runs here too," Tracy said. "I've seen this park plenty of times.
I know the way the ball travels."
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Newly acquired infielder Curtis Mead was hit on the left wrist by a 95-mph fastball from Perkins in the fourth inning.
X-rays were negative, and the team later announced Mead suffered a left wrist contusion. He was replaced defensively in the fifth inning by Anthony Seigler.
Left-hander Payton Tolle earned the win for Boston after pitching 5⅓ innings.
He allowed two runs on solo home runs to Tyler Soderstrom and Jonah Heim while striking out seven batters.
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The win improved the Red Sox to a 55-50 record on the season.
