Boston Red Sox: 4 stars who must shine on October playoff stage
J.D. Martinez has to be the new Mr. Clutch
What is the difference between the Boston Red Sox team of the last two seasons and the one heading into this year’s playoffs?
His name is J.D. Martinez.
The Red Sox were obviously missing the clutch bat of David Ortiz and they have appeared to have filled that void with Martinez.
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At least in the regular season.
Falling just short of the Triple Crown, the type of year Martinez had in his first season with the Boston Red Sox will mean nothing if he struggles in the playoffs.
Mookie Betts needs to set the tone, but J.D. Martinez needs to be the presence in the lineup that changes a pitcher’s approach to those hitting before him and after him. So, even if he does not put up big number, he can impact the game by simply being that presence at the plate Ortiz and Manny Ramirez were when they were leading this team to championships.
A lot of pressure? Sure. But, this is Boston and if we are not putting pressure on star performers, then quite frankly this wouldn’t be title town.
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In feeding off the success of teammate Mookie Betts, Martinez has combined with the rising outfield star as the most dangerous duo in baseball. They have to feed off each other in the playoffs like they have all season long.
"“We feed off each other,” Martinez said, via USA TODAY Sports. “I try to do the best I can in sharing what I know on pitchers, on swing thoughts, and try to give him as much info as I can. He’s been phenomenal because he uses it, and asks for it, and wants to get better.”"
Both players, particularly Martinez is having that effect on the entire lineup. That same knowledge of the game will help this team make the 108 wins count in the playoffs.