With the baseball season a quarter of the way over, the Red Sox are game and a half behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East. One reason for their early season success is the performance of the bullpen. In this post, we will examine three reasons why the Red Sox bullpen is paying dividends.
Offseason Signings Stepping Up
In the off_ season, the organization shored up the bullpen significantly. Adam Ottavino, Matt Andriese, and Garrett Whitlock have stepped up. Rule 5 pickup Garrett Whitlock has been one of the best relievers in baseball. Ex Yankee Adam Ottavino has been lights out in his last dozen appearances. Right_ hander Matt Andriese has been up and down. If the team wants to retake first place, the bullpen will have to continue to pitch on a high level.
Matt Barnes Having All_ Star Season
The veteran reliever is experiencing an All_Star season In 23 games he is 1-1 with a nifty 2.63 ERA. His 11 saves rank him at the top in MLB. If he stays on his current pace he will be the difference between the club having a winning season. Statistically, the team has a 2.84 ERA the seventh _best in baseball.
Bullpen Has Depth
The unit has been receiving valuable contributions from Darwinzon Hernandez, Hirokazu Sawamura, Phillips Valdez, and Darwinzon Hernandez. Hernandez has been Alex Cora’s most electrifying reliever. At some point, I feel Hernandez will be a starter with his proficiency.
Conclusion
If the team hopes to make the playoffs, it will fall on the pitching. The Red Sox has been enjoying quality starts from Nick Pivetta, Nathan Eovaldi, and Garrett Richards. Richards has turned his season around after a disappointing start. A consistent bullpen is a priority for a rewarding post_season.
