Red Sox Struggle in One-Run Games: A Season of Missed Opportunities
The Boston Red Sox’s 2023 season has been marred by a troubling trend: they have struggled significantly in one-run games, holding a dismal 6-17 record in such matchups. As of Saturday, this marks the highest number of one-run losses in Major League Baseball, contributing to nearly half of the team’s overall 35 losses. A few better outcomes could have placed them in playoff contention instead of 10.5 games behind in the AL East.
Multiple factors underpin this disappointing trend. Key issues include poor situational hitting, where the offense has faltered in critical moments, exemplified by an early-season series against the Texas Rangers where they went 1 for 24 with runners in scoring position. The bullpen has also let crucial games slip away, with notable meltdowns leading to late losses. Youth and inexperience among the team’s core players have been cited as contributing factors, with many players still honing their skills at the MLB level.
Despite these setbacks, some members of the team remain optimistic, believing that the young roster can learn and improve. Manager Alex Cora and players hope to translate these lessons into future victories, but time is running out for a turnaround.
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