Why these 2018 Boston Red Sox are a team you can believe in
The Boston Red Sox are clearly one of the league’s best, but how should we feel about this team going forward? Are they contenders or pretenders?
While last Sunday’s meltdown in the Bronx by David Price was alarming, the Boston Red Sox continued to take care of business on the road trip. They have won six in a row and obliterated the Kansas City Royals and Washington Nationals during that span.
Alex Cora’s club is 62-29 and is on pace for 109 wins; they’ve swept three of the last four series, and they’re 45-27 since the historic 17-2 start. So in other words, they’re a machine.
But should Red Sox Nation be convinced that this club is poised for October success?
The answer, not yet.
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There is no question that this team is dominating the league. The aforementioned facts enforce such a belief. However, as followers of baseball, it’s hard to ignore the abysmal teams in the American League – the same teams the Red Sox are beating up against.
Boston is 35-8 against Baltimore, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Kansas City, and Los Angeles. Those victories account for 56 percent of their total wins. The combined record of the five American league teams, through July 8th, is 181-266, a winning percentage of just .405.
On Monday night, they begin a homestand in which they play the Texas Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays, neither of which are anywhere close to being contenders. By the All-Star break, I wouldn’t doubt if the Sox are closing in on 70 wins.
Don’t get me wrong though, fellow Red Sox brethren, this team is a legitimate contender. But there are still just as legitimate questions marks.
David Price, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Joe Kelly have cooled off this summer since their hot spring. Jackie Bradley Jr. has continued to struggle at the plate despite his strong defense. And lastly, I’m still not convinced about the bullpen’s ability come crunch time.
The Verdict
So what’s the verdict? I am cautiously optimistic.
Despite their inherent flaws, the Boston Red Sox, along with a few others, are still miles ahead of the rest of the league. Beating up on bad teams and battling with the other contenders is taking care of business.
Alex Cora seems to be maintaining the club’s precious assets like Chris Sale, Mookie Betts, Martinez and others via off days and limited innings. Likewise, they have played the most road games to date, meaning they have a favorable travel schedule from now forward.
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That may not be paying dividends right now, but come September and October, the extra rest could prove to be the difference.
It’s hard to complain when the Boston Red Sox are 33 games over .500, but there’s still plenty of work to do.