The Boston Red Sox took an early lead with three runs in the first inning, but Tanner Houck faltered, surrendering four runs to the Cleveland Guardians, leading to a 5-4 loss in the first game of a doubleheader. Despite struggling initially, Houck managed to keep the Guardians scoreless through the next four innings, finishing with a line of four runs on eight hits over five innings, striking out six. Manager Alex Cora praised Houck's adjustments post-first inning but emphasized the need for a 'shutdown inning' after the early onslaught. With a troubling 7.58 ERA this season, Houck aims to refine his approach, especially with his splitter against left-handed hitters.