As the start of the Major League Baseball season approaches, teams are busy preparing for the long and grueling season ahead. Spring training is a crucial time for players to fine-tune their skills and for teams to solidify their lineups. While many may argue that spring training numbers don’t hold much weight, the lineups used by teams during these exhibition games can reveal a lot about their plans for the upcoming season. And for the Boston Red Sox, their recent split squad games may have given away their secret for Opening Day.
On Monday, the Red Sox faced off against the Baltimore Orioles and the Atlanta Braves in split squad games. While both lineups featured a mix of regular starters and bench players, it was the lineup against the Orioles that caught the attention of many. The starting nine for the Red Sox looked eerily similar to what many believe will be their Opening Day lineup.
Leading off was Mookie Betts, the dynamic outfielder who has established himself as one of the best players in the league. Following him was Andrew Benintendi, the young and talented left fielder who has quickly become a fan favorite. In the third spot was J.D. Martinez, the power-hitting designated hitter who was a key addition to the team last season.
The rest of the lineup included Xander Bogaerts, Rafael Devers, Mitch Moreland, Eduardo Nunez, Jackie Bradley Jr., and Christian Vazquez. While these names may not be as well-known as the first three, they are all integral parts of the Red Sox roster and have proven themselves to be reliable players.
So why is this lineup significant? Well, for one, it closely resembles the lineup that the Red Sox used during their successful 2018 season. This could indicate that the team plans on sticking with what worked for them last year. But more importantly, it reveals the team’s confidence in their players and their belief that this lineup can lead them to another championship.
One notable absence from the lineup was Hanley Ramirez, who was released by the Red Sox last season. Many believed that Ramirez would be a key player for the team this year, but his absence from the lineup suggests otherwise. This could be a sign that the Red Sox are confident in their current roster and don’t feel the need to make any major changes.
Of course, it’s important to remember that spring training is just that – training. The games don’t count towards the regular season standings and players are still working on getting back into game shape. But the fact that the Red Sox chose to use this lineup against the Orioles, a division rival, speaks volumes about their intentions for the upcoming season.
The Red Sox had a historic season in 2018, winning a franchise-record 108 games and ultimately capturing the World Series title. And with the majority of their roster returning this year, there’s no reason to believe they can’t do it again. This lineup, if used on Opening Day, has the potential to be one of the most formidable in the league.
So while spring training numbers may not hold much weight, the Red Sox’s lineup choices certainly do. And if their recent split squad game is any indication, the team is ready to defend their title and make another run at the World Series. As fans eagerly await the start of the season, one thing is for sure – the Boston Red Sox are ready to make some noise and show the league that they are still the team to beat.