Could the Boston Red Sox actually do the unthinkable and win the division?
Their 12-game win streak has them back in the wild card race, but they still trail by seven games in the division. Seven games is a daunting hill to overcome, but the team is red hot, and the two teams in front of them cannot say the same.
The Yankees have struggled ever since Aaron Judge got hurt, and his return is up in the air. He is still shut down from baseball activities, and the Yankees are sliding. They have a five-game lead over the Red Sox.
Then there is the Tampa Bay Rays, whom the Red Sox will try to sweep on Sunday. The Rays are a good team, but they certainly have their weaknesses. Of the Yankees, Red Sox and Rays, the Rays have the easiest remaining schedule, and the Yankees have the toughest.
The Red Sox could actually find themselves in second place in the division by the end of August if the Yankees continue to struggle without Judge. After that, it would be a mad dash to the finish line against the Rays.
The Red Sox still have four games remaining against the Rays and Yankees. Winning those matchups will be key to winning the division. Additionally, both of those series will take place after the midway point of August. There is a slim chance Garrett Crochet or Roman Anthony will be back by then. Ideally, both would be back for the final month of the season.
About the Author
