I was going to go with "Fixing the 2017 Red Sox" but am not sure it is quite relevant until this gets into early June or so, or until they fall 7 games or more behind in 1st place.
Among the weaknesses on this team through the first quarter of the season has been the defense, the offense from the corners, DH and CF. Aggressive, intelligent base running was a big strength last year, and we're not seeing that as much. Some would also argue that Farrell isn't pushing the right buttons or getting the team ready.
On the plus side, the bullpen has been a surprise to some, given their two dominant set up guys have yet to throw a pitch. Catcher defense is excellent, and Vazquez has taken a step forward. Xander and Mookie have played close to their level with possible improvement on the way. Benintendi has played well for the most part before this first major slump of his career.
Clearly the team is underachieving at just one game above .500 when most had them as a top 5 team in the majors at worst, and the top threat to the Cubs repeating at best.
Personally, I believe it is as simple as getting Hanley (wRC+ 97 as a DH) and JBJ (abysmal with signs of life) going. The lineup is top heavy and has yet to gel for extended stretches. David Price returning healthy is the other major improvement.
What do you all think will cure what ails them? Is this team really underachieving, or have we over-estimated the talent?
Among the weaknesses on this team through the first quarter of the season has been the defense, the offense from the corners, DH and CF. Aggressive, intelligent base running was a big strength last year, and we're not seeing that as much. Some would also argue that Farrell isn't pushing the right buttons or getting the team ready.
On the plus side, the bullpen has been a surprise to some, given their two dominant set up guys have yet to throw a pitch. Catcher defense is excellent, and Vazquez has taken a step forward. Xander and Mookie have played close to their level with possible improvement on the way. Benintendi has played well for the most part before this first major slump of his career.
Clearly the team is underachieving at just one game above .500 when most had them as a top 5 team in the majors at worst, and the top threat to the Cubs repeating at best.
Personally, I believe it is as simple as getting Hanley (wRC+ 97 as a DH) and JBJ (abysmal with signs of life) going. The lineup is top heavy and has yet to gel for extended stretches. David Price returning healthy is the other major improvement.
What do you all think will cure what ails them? Is this team really underachieving, or have we over-estimated the talent?
Last edited: