Boston Red Sox Eliminated from Postseason Contention
The Boston Red Sox have been eliminated from postseason contention after the Cleveland Indians defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-2 on Friday night. One year after their incredible World Series run, the Red Sox have taken a step back in 2019. Currently, with a record of 80-72 in 2019, Boston has not had the same success as they did in 2018 (108-54).
What Happened?
The Red Sox got off to a rough start in April. In their first nineteen games, they finished with a record of 6-13. In 2018, the Red Sox had the third-best pitching staff in the American League. This season the Red Sox have the seventh-best pitching staff. While players such as Chris Sale, Nathan Eovaldi, and David Price had great seasons in 2018, they have taken steps back in 2019. As a result, Price was shut down for the rest of the season just a few days ago. The Sox pitching staff as a whole produced an ERA of 3.75 in 2018, but that number has risen to 4.65 in 2019.
The Red Sox offense in 2018 was phenomenal. Both J.D. Martinez and Mookie Betts had MVP caliber seasons. In 2019, both players are having good seasons, but not nearly as impressive as 2018. For the most part, the offense seems to be identical to the 2018 season, but it has not made a significant impact to their success this season.
Nice Surprises
While Boston saw the departure of All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel after the 2018 season, they saw Brandon Workman be very effective as the team’s closer. Offensively, Christian Vazquez, Xander Bogaerts, and Rafael Devers had seasons where they progressed. It would be no surprise if the next Red Sox core would revolve around them and 24-year-old Andrew Benintendi.
Final Thoughts
It’s clear to see that the Red Sox are due for a busy offseason. As players like Rick Porcello are free agents, the new-look front office will have to get busy. There have even been rumors of trading players to relieve salary complications and to change the culture. The 2019 season appears to just be a World Series hangover, and the Red Sox will look to rebound in 2020.
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