Chris Sale returned to the Boston Red Sox lineup at the beginning of this season and had a record of 5-2. On June 1st, Sale once again found himself on 60 Day IL. He had a stress-related injury to his scapula. What remains to be seen is if Chris Sale can help the Red Sox make a playoff push.
A Red Sox Playoff Push Amid Chris Sale’s Return
After being activated from the IL on August 11th, Sale made his first start since he went on the IL in June. Sale’s first outing came against the Detroit Tigers on August 11th. In that contest, he retired the first 14 batters he faced en route to earning his first win since June 1st.
Sale’s Second Outing After His Return
Against the Washington Nationals on August 17th, Sale allowed two runs on two hits in 4.1 innings of work. He also walked three while striking out three. Despite the relatively low numbers, Sale still suffered a loss.
What the Red Sox Expect From Sale
Though he did not have horrible numbers against the Nationals yet still suffered the loss, Sale has always been the type of bounce-back pitcher. After a bad outing, Sale usually has a great tour the next time up. He has an intense personality and self demeanor to want to be the best and show his best whenever on the mound. The loss to the Nationals is what Sale will focus on. He uses his setbacks as motivation to be better every time he pitches.
What Can is Expected from Sale in His Next Outing
Sale is scheduled to pitch Monday, August 22nd, against the Houston Astros. Though the Astros are not easy to beat, Sale will undoubtedly be up for the challenge. Hopefully, his Red Sox teammates can provide enough run support for him to get his second win since his return.
Importance of Sale to a Red Sox Playoff Push
Chris Sale remains the Red Sox ace. He will need to have the best outing he possibly can each time he takes the mound for the remainder of the season. However, the responsibility of making the playoffs does not rely solely on Sale. His Red Sox teammates need to start hitting and give him enough run support so that he will not overexert himself physically and mentally. This will be very important, especially if the Red Sox secure a playoff spot.
Takeaway
With plenty of baseball left to be played, Chris Sale has to continue pitching the way he has been since his return from the IL. Sale has always been an intense personality and the type of pitcher who, after an outing in which he does not get the win, comes back with ferociousness and veracity the following game. The sale will likely demonstrate this attribute when he takes the mound against the Houston Astros on Monday. The Red Sox hope that Sale can win out the rest of the season and propel the Red Sox to a playoff spot. The Red Sox also must realize that Sale cannot do it alone and that his teammates will have to become more productive, especially at the plate.
Main Photo Credits: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
