 |
| Image Source cbssports.com |
The Boston Red Sox's quest for redemption hit a snag on Thursday at Fenway Park. Their 2023 season commenced with a 10-9 loss to the Baltimore Orioles. The seasoned right-hander Corey Kluber received the honor of starting on Opening Day, but his performance was below par. He gave up five earned runs in a mere 3 1/3 innings. Unfortunately, the bullpen also struggled to contain the Orioles as they racked up 15 hits and nine walks.
Despite a commendable offensive effort that produced 11 hits and a late-game comeback attempt, the Red Sox fell short of victory due to their pitching deficiencies. They'll be aiming for a more successful outing on Saturday with left-hander Chris Sale taking the mound for the first time since July 17.
Following the Red Sox's loss to the Orioles on Opening Day, a few exaggerated reactions have emerged.
Red Sox Pitching is a Problem
The Boston Red Sox's pitching woes, which garnered negative attention during the offseason, were brought to light in their opening game against the Orioles on Thursday.
Corey Kluber, a two-time Cy Young award winner, had a disappointing debut for the Red Sox. In just 3 1/3 innings, he allowed five earned runs, six hits, and four walks. Kluber threw only 48 of his 80 pitches for strikes.
The game's first inning saw Orioles' Adley Rutschman hit a solo home run off Kluber, setting the tone for the game.
In the fourth inning of the game, things began to fall apart for the Red Sox. Kluber walked Gunnar Henderson, the Orioles' top prospect, and then allowed a two-run homer to Ramos Urias.
The Boston Red Sox struggled on Opening Day as their pitching staff failed to deliver. Veteran right-hander Corey Kluber, making his debut for the Red Sox, allowed five earned runs on six hits and four walks before being pulled in the fourth inning. Kluber walked more than two batters only once last season and allowed more than one homer only twice, making it a rare occasion for him. His replacement, Zack Kelly, allowed a run to score on his first pitch and walked in another run. Ryan Brasier, who entered the game in the fifth inning, plunked the first batter he faced but went on to induce a double play. He also allowed two RBI singles and walked two batters. Kaleb Ort, who was officially added to the roster earlier in the day after a poor spring training, allowed two more RBI singles in the seventh.
In total, Red Sox pitching gave up 10 earned runs on 10 hits and nine walks. The team also allowed five steals, their most allowed in a game since September 2013. However, fans shouldn't panic about the pitching staff just yet. If Chris Sale, Garrett Whitlock, and Brayan Bello can stay healthy, brighter days should be ahead for the Red Sox. The bullpen is also in better shape than last year with Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin in the mix.
The Offense Will be Better Than Expected
If you're searching for silver linings, the Red Sox offense put in a valiant effort on opening day. Though they ultimately fell just short of tying the game, they scored five runs in the last two innings to make the game interesting.
This lineup has the potential to exceed expectations throughout the season. Alex Verdugo played well in the leadoff spot, hitting a triple in Boston's first at-bat and finishing the game with two hits. Rafael Devers, who had two hits of his own, is expected to have another All-Star season. Justin Turner, a newcomer to the team, went 2-for-4 with a walk and an RBI. Masataka Yoshida, a Japanese import, got two hits in his MLB debut. Triston Casas contributed two RBIs, and Christian Arroyo hit a clutch two-run double.
Despite missing key players like Xander Bogaerts, Trevor Story, and J.D. Martinez, this group has the ability to generate runs. However, the pitching staff needs to step up and do their part to secure victories.
Masataka Yoshida Has a Bright Future in Boston
Masataka Yoshida was a standout performer in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and his impressive play has continued in the big leagues. He made his MLB debut on Thursday and didn't disappoint.
Yoshida got his first MLB hit and RBI in the sixth inning against Orioles reliever Keegan Akin. He finished the game 2-for-4 with a hit-by-pitch.
Yoshida's advanced plate discipline and exceptional bat-to-ball skills were immediately apparent. The concerns about him struggling to adjust to the majors were unfounded. He is expected to be one of the Red Sox's most impactful offensive players in the 2023 season.
Adley Rutschman is an MVP Candidate
The Red Sox had a tough time dealing with the 2022 American League Rookie of the Year runner-up, Adley Rutschman, on Thursday. Rutschman, a former top MLB prospect and No. 1 draft pick, started his sophomore season by hitting a homer off Kluber and finished the game with an impressive 5-for-5 performance, including four RBI.
With his exceptional performance, Rutschman is being touted as a strong candidate to win the MVP award and become the first catcher since Buster Posey in 2012 to do so. Despite playing in only 113 games last year, Rutschman finished 12th in the MVP voting. His impressive performance on Thursday is further proof that he will be a force to be reckoned with in his first full season.
