Last season, the Boston Red Sox’s biggest weaknesses was their starting pitching. So far, in 2021, that has not been the case. The Red Sox have gotten off to a 3-3 start, including a sweep of the Tampa Bay Rays. Other than Garrett Richards‘ first start, Boston’s pitching has been a strength. In the first six games this year, the starters have made a good first impression.
Through the first week of the season, the Red Sox starters have lasted less than five innings in only one start. In that span, they have also struck out a combined 33 batters. After finishing last season with one of baseball’s highest ERA’s, it has been a different story in 2021. The Red Sox rotation seems more confident on the mound and has not been afraid of displaying their emotions after getting big outs.
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Although the Red Sox rotation has excelled, they have allowed a combined 28 hits and walked 13 batters. They have been able to limit the damage and only allowed 12 earned runs. Two of their best starts came against the Tampa Bay Rays after a disappointing opening series. Entering Wednesday’s game, the rotation had a combined 2.30 ERA if you excluded Richards start. While the offense came to life in the second series of 2021, the Red Sox pitching continued to excel.
As the Red Sox look to end their postseason drought, pitching will be key. Reinforcements are also on the way as Eduardo Rodriguez is expected to make his season debut on Thursday. Rodriguez missed all of the 2020 season, but he is one of Boston’s best arms when healthy. He will be rejoining the only pitching staff in the majors that have not allowed a home run this season.
Can the Starters Sustain Their Success?
While the Red Sox starters have been impressive, injuries are bound to happen. Due to trades and free-agent signings, Boston has much better depth than a year ago. Tanner Houck is working on a third pitch in the minors, and the Red Sox have prospects such as Connor Seabold that are nearly major league-ready. After an offseason full of questions, the Red Sox pitching could be a strength.
This season, the Red Sox have been led by Nathan Eovaldi, who has a 1.69 ERA in his first two starts. He has set the tone for a rotation that has gotten better with each start. With an offense that has seemingly found its grove, the Red Sox could be a dangerous team in 2021.
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