The illusion of contention and more talk about better days ahead is a tough sell for a once-great franchise. The Giants on Sunday told their fans that they are about winning this year. The Red Sox did just the opposite.

Red Sox Predicted To Make Decision on $60 Million Signing originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Faced with the prospect of helping his team sweep their archrivals Sunday at Fenway, Red Sox starter Brayan Bello threw out his usual plan of attack and was rewarded with his best start of the season.

The Yankees suffered their first regular-season series sweep since last July as the Red Sox dominated at Fenway Park, with New York batters hitting just .160 against Boston pitching.

Dobbins finished with six scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out five. "The stuff was good," Alex Cora said.

Another day, another new ninth-inning option for the Red Sox. Garrett Whitlock dominated Sunday, but that doesn't mean Aroldis Chapman is hurt.

The Reds swung a trade on Saturday by acquiring right-handed pitcher Brian Van Belle from the Red Sox for cash considerations. Cincinnati optioned Van Belle to Triple-A Louisville and now have a full 40-man roster.