With game one of the ALDS scheduled tonight, it’s time for the Red Sox pitching staff to step it up. Although the team had a franchise high of 108 wins, in 2018 this is where the players earn their salary In this post, we will review three areas why the pitching staff needs to step it up. Time For The Red Sox Pitching staff to Step It Up Eliminated by Houston The Past Two Years; Although the organization enjoyed a franchise record of 108 wins, no postseason series celebrations the past two years. The past two seasons the team has gone down in defeat at the hands of the Astros. With free _agent signee, David Price and Chris Sale winless in a postseason series the pressure are on the team and first_ year manager Alex Cora to deliver a playoff series victory If the organization fails to get past the Yankees in round one General Manager Dave Dombrowski’s job may be in jeopardy. Red Sox Pitching Versus The Yankees, Astros and Indians; In contrast to the Yankees, Indians, and Astros The Red Sox bullpen ranked 4th in the American League with 50 saves and a 3.75 staff ERA. Closer Craig Kimbrel 5-1 2.74 ERA and 42 saves is the games best. The Indians bullpen of Cody Allen, Neil Ramirez, and Andrew Miller are tough to beat on any given night. Houston’s Ken Giles and Roberto Osuna are one of the best in the game. As for the starting pitching, all four teams are highly talented Overall the edge goes to the Astros with the starting staff of Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, Dallas Keuchel and Charlie Morton Bostons David Price, Chris Sale, and Rick Porcello have not won in the postseason throughout their careers. Level of Talent Compared to last season the Red Sox is better with the additions of JD Martinez, Stephen Pearce, Ian Kinsler, Brandon Phillips and pitcher Nathan Eovaldi. The key for a successful postseason is to play smart and aggressive. Decisions After PostSeason ; Regardless of the outcome of the postseason decisions could be made on Red Sox General Manager Dave Dombrowski. Although the team has qualified for the playoffs three years in a row, the organization’s farm system has very few highly ranked prospects.
Why Goaltending will take the Bruins To the Promised Land in 2018/19
With the 2018/19 NHL season set to get underway this week, Bruins fans are optimistic about the upcoming season. With Tampa Bay and Toronto, the teams to beat in the East hopes are high for a successful Bruins season. In this post, we will cover three reasons why goaltending will be the key ingredients for the Bruins to reach the Stanley Cup Finals. Why Goaltending Will Take The Bruins To The Promise Land In 2018/19
Upgrade In Goaltending; Although Toronto signed John Tavares the Bruins did some moves of their own this offseason. One important move was signing free agent goalie Jaroslav Halak.
In 54 games with the Islanders, last season Halak compiled a 20_-26 record 908 save percentage. As for the playoffs Halak has played in 30 career playoff games while posting a 13-15 record and a 908 save percentage. Halak is is a huge upgrade over last year’s backup Anton Khudobin. Halak’s playoff experience should be a huge help for Tuukka Rask.
Defensive Improvements; Last season the Bruins had one of the best defenses in the NHL. With the trading of veteran Adam McQuaid, the Bruins added former Devils defenseman, John Moore. Moore who has played in a total of 446 career games has 32 career goals and 67 assists. Moore who is noted for his speed and puck handling skills will be a definite upgrade on the power play. Also, his leadership will be a big plus in the locker room.
One other trade in the defensive department was acquiring Stephen Kampfer from the Rangers. Kampfer was part of the Adam McQuaid deal with the Rangers midway through training camp.
Youth Movement; Along with the offseason moves the Bruins continue to grow their roster with younger and quicker players. Last seasons number one draft pick Axel Andersson is competing for a full _time roster spot. With youngsters, Charlie McAvoy, Jake DeBrusk, Sean Kuraly, Anders Bjork and Danton Heinen already on the roster look for the Bruins to make life difficult for opposing teams this season. Looking ahead; Last season head coach Bruce Cassidy guided the Bruins to a 50-20- record for 112 points in the Eastern Conference. With Former Islander John Tavares signing with Toronto goalie Tuukka Rask has a huge task ahead of him along with the rest of the organization.
The Bruins survived Toronto last season in round one of the playoffs, only losing to Tampa Bay in round two. If the Bruins have any hopes of reaching the finals boils down to a balanced scoring attack, solid defense and a well _rested Tuukka Rask.