BOSTON RED SOX (68-30, 1ST PLACE, AL EAST)
BIG PICTURE
A fantastic first half, highlighted by the best 19-game start (17-2) in the franchise’s 118-year history, has earned the Red Sox the best record in baseball. They have a nice mix of youth and veteran players, a deep lineup and an outstanding closer. The addition of has had a tremendous impact on clubhouse and offense, and he and
are top candidates for American League MVP. Left-hander is always a Cy Young possibility.
J.D. Martinez the Mookie Betts Chris Sale BEST PERFORMANCE
Betts leads the majors with a .359 batting average, .691 slugging percentage and 1.139 OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage) and is among the leaders in several other categories.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
In his first season in Boston, Martinez is batting .328, leads the majors in RBI with 80 and is tied for the lead in home runs with 29. He has a 39-game home onbase streak, the longest at Fenway Park in more than 10 years.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Boston needs left-hander David Price to be a solid No. 2. He is 10-6 with a 4.42 ERA but has a 9.20 ERA in his last three outings.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The Red Sox will be active buyers before the deadline. They must bolster the bullpen, especially with a left-hander, and could use some infield insurance with third baseman Rafael Devers sidelined because of a sore left shoulder.
KEY SERIES
vs. Yankees Sept. 28-30