Yoshinobu Yamamoto

During the past offseason, Boston Red Sox fans were primarily focused on the team’s pitching needs. The front office had hinted at the possibility of acquiring Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Jordan Montgomery seemed almost certain to join the team. However, the biggest offseason signing was Lucas Giolito, a reclamation project, which left many fans disappointed. Additionally, the acquisition of Cooper Criswell was met with skepticism and became the subject of jokes aimed at the team’s management.

Fast-forward to a quarter of the way through the season, and the Red Sox pitching staff has exceeded expectations more than any other in baseball. Despite this, the team is in third place in the American League East with a .500 winning percentage after 44 games. To avoid squandering their stellar pitching, the Red Sox’s offense needs to improve quickly.

Despite lacking big names and dealing with injuries, the Red Sox starters have performed exceptionally well. They lead the league in starter ERA at 2.62, are third in WHIP at 1.07, and have allowed the fourth-fewest hard-hit balls. This success is largely attributed to Tanner Houck, who has emerged as a top-tier starter with a 2.17 ERA and leading the league in fWAR. Kutter Crawford has also been impressive, ranking second in fWAR and 11th in ERA among starters.