Sizing Up Chaim Bloom’s Offseason Transactions.

Now that baseball is officially here, it is time to make predictions. Red Sox General Manager Chaim Bloom didn’t really make any big splashes, but he did enough to keep the team competitive. In this post, we will review Chaim Bloom’s Off_ season Red Sox transactions. If anything, the organization got better. But that remains to be seen.

New _Season Fresh Outlook

In 2020, the organization had the 4th worst record in Major League Baseball. Now a year later the team has rehired Alex Cora. With Alex Cora, the club has several new faces. Key addition,s are Garrett Richards righthanded pitcher, outfielder Hunter Renfroe, right_ handed pitcher Mike Andriese, Relief pitcher Adam Oattavino, utility man Marwin Gonzalez, second_baseman Kiki Hernandez, Right Handed_pitcher Calvin Pritchard,

Granted, these moves are not blockbusters, but good enough to make a solid competitor in the AL East this season. Martin Perez provides depth. With promising prospects Tanner Houck and Bryan Mata on the horizon, the club will make 2021 interesting.

Pitching Is Still Questionable

In 2020, the team had the worst bullpen in baseball. A Major League _high 25 blown saves cost the club a winning season. Manager Ron Roenicke lost his job to Alex Cora. Starters Chris Sale and Eduardo Rodriguez suffered season _ending injuries. Mike Andriese and Adam Ottavino will provide depth.

The primary concern is who will win the closer’s role? The logical candidate is Matt Barnes. Barnes will get competition from Ryan Brasier and Connor Seabold. Seabold came over in the Brandon Workman trade from Philadelphia trade along with Nick Pivetta.

Well Balanced Offense

In 2020 the Red Sox finished with a team average of 265 81 home runs and 278 rbi’s. They also had a 5th best 292 runs scored. Despite impressive numbers they finished with disappointing 24-36 record.

The team added Kiki Hernandez, Hunter Renfroe, and Marwin Gonzalez to the mix. Rookie Bobby Dalbec is the starting first baseman. In23 games with the big club he had 8 home runs and 16 rbi’s in 23 games.

Team Has Plenty Of Depth

The Red Sox have added plenty of depth for the 2021 season. Manager Alex Cora has plenty of options. KiKi Hernandez and Marwin Gonzalez can play both the infield and outfield. Hunter Renfroe can platoon and share the designated hitter responsibility.

Conclusion

With a new season comes hope and optimisim. The organization has young prospects ready to make their mark in the majors. The bullpen added arms and depth. A veteran starting pitcher in Garrett Richards. Red Sox fans have reason to be excited for the upcoming season.

Matt Patricia Returning Will Be Beneficial For Patriots

The Patriots announced last week, that former Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will be returning to the organization. Patricia has served the Patriots in many capacities as a defensive coach. He first joined the team in 2004 as an offensive coordinator. a year later he switched over to the defensive side as a linebacking coach. He was also part of the success by winning two Super Bowls. In this post, we will review three reasons why a Matt Patricia return will benefit the 2021 Patriots.

Familiar With The Defense

Matt Patricia has served under Bill Belichick since 2004. During that span, he has seen many great players develop under his leadership. Players such Teddy Bruschi, Richard Seymour, Vince Wilforkhttp Devin McCourty, and Chandler Jones have all performed under Matt Patricia.

Last season, the team was last in stopping the run. Overall, New England allowed 5 yards per carry. One of its’s worst seasons under head coach Bill Belichick.

Front Seven Needs To Be Restructured

For years, New England has been known for their front seven. With players leaving and opt_outs the organization has suffered significantly. New faces have been leaving an impression on the coaching staff. Second_year linebacker Chris Winovich is developing into a team leader. Linebacker Josh Uche has shown he can make a solid contribution. And safety Kyle Duggar will compete for a starting spot next season.

The team finished 11th in the NFL last season. With the addition of Matt Patricia, the Patriot’s defense will be exciting to watch. With several holes to fill, this year’s draft will be interesting.

With ten draft picks available drafting defense, and a quarterback will be a priority. Players returning next season after opting out will be another issue. Linebacker Donta Hightower may retire. And Devin McCourty. Matt Patricia returning may prove significant with these decisions.

Excellent Working Relationship With Bill Belichick

During his 14 year tenure, Matt Patricia has shared brilliant success with Bill Belichick. Two Super Bowls were won under his leadership. A lot needs to be done in order to get back to Super Bowl _caliber.

New England has 60 million dollars in cap space available. Stopping the run was the club’s biggest weakness last season. If the Patriots spend their money wisely, the playoffs are possible.

Conclusion

The Patriots are at a crossroads. A well _thought game plan is a must this off _season. Step number one is a quarterback, Step number two is stronger defense, step number three is to get back to the Super Bowl.