On a night when the Red Sox needed a lift, they got one from both the mound and the plate. Garrett Crochet, making his long-awaited return, delivered a statement outing with 10 strikeouts over seven scoreless innings, while Trevor Story’s home run highlighted a balanced offensive attack that overwhelmed the Oakland Athletics in a 7-0 victory.

For Crochet, the performance was more than just numbers. It was a reminder of the potential that made him one of baseball’s most intriguing young arms. After battling through injuries, the left-hander showed sharp command and electric stuff, mixing his fastball and slider to keep Oakland hitters guessing all night. His efficiency was notable: seven innings, no runs, and just a handful of hard-hit balls allowed. The Athletics never looked comfortable.

The offense gave him plenty of support. Story’s blast provided the exclamation point, but he wasn’t alone. Masataka Yoshida delivered timely contact, Jarren Duran showcased his speed on the basepaths, and Carlos Narváez chipped in with a big hit to extend the lead. The result was a well-rounded lineup performance—something Boston has been searching for during stretches of inconsistency this season.

Manager Alex Cora praised Crochet’s composure. “He looked like he hadn’t missed a beat,” Cora said. “That’s the version of Garrett that can change a game. When he’s in command, it sets the tone for everything else.”

For Story, the home run was another encouraging sign in a year defined by his efforts to return to form after injuries of his own. His swing looked free and confident, his reaction full of the energy that once made him a star in Colorado. The Red Sox have been waiting for Story to become a stabilizing force in their infield and lineup, and games like this serve as a reminder of what he can still provide.

The shutout victory also underscored Boston’s need for pitching depth. With their rotation tested and the bullpen heavily taxed in recent weeks, Crochet’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. If he continues to pitch with this level of dominance, the Red Sox gain not just another arm but a potential difference-maker down the stretch.

Meanwhile, the Athletics continued to search for answers. Their bats went silent against Crochet, and their pitching staff was unable to contain Boston’s lineup. For a team deep in rebuild mode, the game highlighted the gap between a roster searching for identity and one trying to claw its way into contention.

For Boston, the 7-0 win was more than just a number in the standings. It was symbolic: a reminder of what happens when pitching and hitting align. With Crochet firing on the mound and Story finding his power swing, the Red Sox looked like a team capable of punching above their weight in the American League.

The challenge, as always, will be consistency. But if Tuesday night was any indication, Boston may finally have the pieces falling into place.