Abad entered Friday's game with one out and two men on in the eighth inning and struck out two in Boston's 5-4 win over the Cubs.

EDGE Analysis

The appearance was Abad's sixth of the season, the fewest among the relievers who have been on Boston's roster all season, and the first in a high-leverage spot. Manager John Farrell has preferred Robby Scott in such situations, but he was burned earlier in the game. Abad was clearly pumped after striking out pinch-hitter Matt Szucur and Kyle Schwarber, holding the lead for closer Craig Kimbrel. This one moment was the brightest highlight of his Red Sox career to date.