The Red Sox have a lot of problems after the first month of play. After the World Baseball Classic started, people stated that the Red Sox won it all with their team’s hitters doing amazing. There were high hopes for the season. Over the first two weeks of the season the team went 2-8 with a six game losing streak. Injuries and inconsistent performance created instability, especially in the infield.
The problem at first base is up and coming, It may not be a bad problem, but it still a problem. Contreras has earned a spot at 1B and hits well while Casas was injured. However, Casas is expected back in May. Casas had the starting role before his injury, so what does that mean for him? Does he get it right away or will he compete for his spot? Contreras has been hitting well and adjusting to his 1B role. Casas has been on IR for 11 months, but he was the star 1B before.
Trevor Story is the starting Short Stop for the Red Sox. Story struggles to hit and play defense this season. Story is battling a batting slump which some say are rooting from struggles seeing the ball, while also having defensive errors. Should the sox look at other shortstops? Collin keen stated on the Red Sox “Trevor Story’s athleticism isn’t what it used to be, and his injury-plagued body would be better preserved at second base.”
Was losing Alex Bregman talent and Leadership role a major contributor to the problems right now. The Veteran leadership and communication is missing, lack of infield cohesion is showing. Just like how veteran player and manager Alex Cora joined the team in 2018 and immediately won a World Series, the team depended on Bregman for success and communication. “I think all of us believe that if we all put together a good effort this season, we have a really good chance of being a winning baseball team. For me, I can only talk for myself, I’ll play wherever it helps the team win” (Alex Bregman). Despite believing in the team and being ready to help, he still opted out of his contract and left a gap in leadership?
The problem isn’t talent; it is inconsistency, miscommunication, and unclear expectations. This could define the season like it already has so far. The Constant changes and personal struggles hurt the team. Until the Red Sox settle, the infield is a weakness. It is a deep wound that will be the reason why October baseball is out of reach.
