Red Sox's Aroldis Chapman Allows 1st Hit Since July, Hitless Streak Ends at 50 Batters

Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman allowed his first hit since July 23 on Wednesday when Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers smacked a ninth-inning double, ending a remarkable streak of 50 straight batters retired.

From July 26 to September 7, Chapman made 17 appearances, throwing 14.2 shutout innings while striking out 21 and walking just four. Chapman also struck out four batters in one inning last Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbacks (one batter reached base on a wild pitch following a strikeout).

Chapman has been sensational for the Red Sox this year, saving 29 games and posting a 1.14 ERA. He's been the backbone for a bullpen on a Red Sox team that's fighting for both a playoff spot and the American League East title.

Wednesday didn't go the way of Chapman and the Red Sox, though. Chapman entered the game in the bottom of the ninth with the game tied at four. After Langeliers' leadoff double, Lawrence Butler hit a game-winning RBI single for the 5-4 win.

Chapman and the Red Sox have an off-day Thursday and will look to get back in the win column on Friday, which marks the start of a pivotal three-game home series against the New York Yankees.