As we close out of February it’s time to preview the hopes of a nation…”Red Sox nation” that is. Boston is coming off missing the playoffs for the second straight campaign and fears are mounting north of “Yankee land” (much to Yankee fans joy) that they won’t be playing October baseball yet again. New GM Craig Breslow has taken over and continued more the typical shuffling of furniture that has plagued the Red Sox for a while now. With ownership seemingly stuck in neutral, Boston made only one addition of note, acquiring former Cardinals outfielder Tyler O’Neill while talented infield prospect Vaughn Grissom arrives from Atlanta in exchange for departing ace Chris Sale. Lucas Giolito was added as a free agent pitching pickup to join a staff that needs some big-time help. Let’s dive into their keys to success this season.

Keys to Success

1. Casas and Devers Dominate: With the pitching staff likely struggling this season, the Red Sox hopes of winning will be pinned on their offense. The good news is that their lineup looks dangerous, and it is anchored by an emerging tandem of lefties. Rafael Devers is one of the game’s best pure hitters and he is flanked by young star first baseman Triston Casas. These two will have to have big years if this team is going anywhere.

2. A Big Step for Bello: While the Sox rotation is mostly comprised of veteran arms, their lone young arm will garner plenty of attention going into the season. Youngster Brayan Bello is entering his second full season in “the show” and Boston will be looking to harness his talent this campaign. It feels like they’re searching for answers on their staff and if Bello can turn his glimpses of greatness into full time success they can be in the race this year.

3. Vaughn Leads the Youth Movement: As the Red Sox seemingly transition toward a new era, the aforementioned Vaughn Grissom will be asked to help start the youth movement. The young infielder showed promise in Atlanta but couldn’t earn a full-time role over the Bravos terrific veteran core. He can however take center stage in Fenway Park and with more talented rookies coming, Boston’s future may be bright.

The Lineup

1. Jarren Duran RF

2. Rafael Devers 3B

3. Triston Casas 1B

4. Trevor Story SS

5. Masataka Yoshida DH

6. Tyler O’Neill CF

7. Wiyler Abreu LF

8. Vaughn Grissom 2B

9. Connor Wong C

The Staff

1. Lucas Giolito

2. Nick Pivetta

3. Brayan Bello

4. Kutter Crawford

5. Tanner Houck

The Closer: Kenley Jansen

The Prediction

76 Wins

While this Red Sox team has a potent lineup, it’s hard to see how they can go far this year with their pitching staff in the shape it’s in. If members of this rotation don’t dramatically overperform I expect this team to struggle once again, especially given how tough the AL East is.

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