Why the Red Sox’ strong pitching staff isn’t translating into wins

Sonny Gray

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The Sox’ pitching really did live up to expectations. Currently in the month of May, they have a record of 6-5, a 2.61 ERA, 34 walks, 91 Ks, a WHIP of 1.14 and four saves, while only giving up 80 hits and 29 earned runs (ER) in 100 innings pitched.

However, some people think this isn’t bad, but it’s not great. The truth is, it’s really great. What’s causing people to think it’s worse than it is is the record of 6-5. However, when your pitching is only giving up a little over two and a half runs a game, and you have a barely above .500 record, it’s not the pitching’s fault, it’s the offense’s.

The offense isn’t keeping up

Trevor Story

Imagn Images

If we look at the Sox’ offense this month in comparison, they’ve crossed the plate 37 times in 11 games. That means Boston is averaging around 3.36 runs per game.

With that, it would make sense for the Sox to be doing better than their record suggests. Although, when it comes to averages, it’s not an accurate reading. They could score 10 runs one game, but if they score one run or two for most of the rest, their average gets carried by the 10.

On top of that, only half of the Sox’ lineup is doing most of the production. Guys like Wilyer Abreu and Willson Contreras have been anchors for the offense, and the breakout of Ceddanne Rafaela has done wonders.

But, then you have guys like Caleb Durbin, Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, Carlos Narvaez and Trevor Story, all performing 40-70% worse than league-average hitters. It simply isn’t sustainable for contention.

The solution

Carlos Narvaez

© Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Either the Sox hitting adapts, or they won’t be in contention for much longer. Another option would be to go all out at the trade deadline, and get what they need for a push.

That would be expensive though, as selling teams know buyers that want to contend are desperate. So, hopefully the Sox go with the former, and help get the bottom half of their lineup in working order.

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