From Newsweek · Ben Watanabe · · 1m 20s
Red Sox Faith Tested as Postseason Approaches
Boston Red Sox's playoff hopes hinge on key players' performance as postseason looms.
In brief
Boston Red Sox's playoff hopes hinge on key players' performance as postseason looms. The Boston Red Sox's postseason success depends on whether key players like Trevor Story and Jarren Duran can deliver after recent injuries and inconsistent performance. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Red Sox Faith Tested
The Boston Red Sox face postseason challenges as their playoff success depends on key players' performance after a strong July surge.
July Surge and Current Struggles
The Red Sox won 15 consecutive games in July but are now the 19th-best offense in MLB with only 15 1/2 games of improvement since the All-Star break.
Injury Concerns
Multiple key players including Willson Contreras, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Aroldis Chapman are either returning from injury or recently came off the injured list.
Trevor Story's Performance
Trevor Story has been scorching with a .349 batting average and .508 slugging percentage since returning from injury after 16 games.
Jarren Duran's Ineffectiveness
Jarren Duran has been a net minus for the team's offense despite hitting 20 home runs, with no evidence he will improve in postseason play.
Postseason Decision Point
The Red Sox must decide whether to trust Trevor Story or other players like Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Andruw Monasterio, or Nick Sogard for postseason success.
What to remember
The Boston Red Sox's postseason success depends on whether key players like Trevor Story and Jarren Duran can deliver after recent injuries and inconsistent performance.
