fbpx
Skip to main content

Biggest flaws on current MLB playoff teams

MLB pitchers

AL No. 1 Wild Card: Boston Red Sox

Andrew Benintendi

Traditionally, the Red Sox have hit for power. Even when Boston hasn’t been very good, it’s had more than enough power in the lineup to keep opposing pitchers up at night.

But in 2017, the Red Sox are dealing with a power shortage. They rank 29th in baseball with only 53 home runs.

Now, in recent years, a lack of power hasn’t always been a big problem. Teams like the San Francisco Giants have won World Series with anemic power numbers. But the Giants play in the traditionally pitcher friendly AT&T Park and play a good portion of their road games in places like Petco Park and Dodger Stadium. Boston, meanwhile plays at Fenway Park, and has road games at stadiums like Camden Yards and Yankee Stadium.

It’s hard to have a lot of long-term success in places like that when you’re not hitting for power.

Most of these teams can use a good pitching upgrade. That certainly wouldn’t hurt the Red Sox. It’s impossible to have too much pitching.

But if Boston is really going to improve its team, adding some thump into the lineup is the way to do it.

Mentioned in this article:

More About: