The 2019 Red Sox are far from what they were back in 2018. The defending World Champions Boston lost key series against the Astros, Twins, and Yankees last week. While they have improved, they still have plenty of problems as we get closer to the All-Star Break. However, everyone but them knows that. Here are a few of those issues.
They Are Not What They Used To Be
We knew Boston would not be the same team from a year ago before the season started. After all, key pieces such as Drew Pomeranz and Craig Kimbrel jumped off the boat. Little did we know, things would be worse than expected.
Pitching-wise, Chris Sale is a prime example of their decline. Sale has had plenty of issues this year. To start with, he has a 1-7 record alongside a 4.35 ERA. What’s more worrying, however, is the fact that his fastball has lost almost two miles an hour of average velocity compared to 2018.
A Bashed Bullpen
Hector Velazquez, Colten Brewer and, Tyler Thornburg. Do you know what those three names have in common? They give up runs as if they were Christmas gifts. Not only that but, Ryan Brasier has not done particularly well filling in for Kimbrel in the closer role as he only has 6 saves for the season. The 2019 Red Sox bullpen needs help, and they need it as soon as possible.
Betts Has Not Signed Yet
AL MVP and weekend bowler Mookie Betts entered his final year of contract this season. According to reports, Betts turned down an eight years deal worth $200 million. There have not been any other extension talks by the organization as it seems Betts intends to hit the free agent market next year. This could be bad news for the 2019 Red Sox as they could lose a big part of their team’s core. Although, Dave Dombrowski and Alex Cora probably disagree with that.
This Is Fine
Their numerous issues are not what causes concern. The real cause for concern is the fact that they don’t seem to be bothered about their problems. According to manager Cora, this is just a problem of “consistency.” In Red Sox world, it is as simple as winning more games. They could not be more wrong. They are plagued by trouble both on and off the field and it is not as if the Yankees will stop winning for them to catch up.
The 2019 Red Sox world is bound to come to a crashing end this season and the reason is quite simple. They are the living representation of the “This Is Fine” meme. Just like the dog in the funny hat, they sit calmly while their entire world catches fire.
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