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Red Sox: What could possibly go wrong for Boston in 2017?

By Rick McNair

Jul 8, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Sean O'Sullivan (62) pitches during the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 8, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Sean O'Sullivan (62) pitches during the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Boston Red Sox are the best team – at least on paper – in the American League. Sometimes things go bad instead of good and here are a few possibilities.

Oct 10, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) salutes the fans after loosing to the Cleveland Indians 3-4 in game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) salutes the fans after loosing to the Cleveland Indians 3-4 in game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

Your 2017 edition of the Boston Red Sox are absolutely loaded with talent – especially the talent that serves best and that is pitching.

An abundance of starting pitching, a bullpen that had a strategic addition, and the financial ability to add an arm if necessary. Toss in Carson Smith’s possible June return and the pitching is set top to bottom – depth and ability.

The lineup is flexible and well-balanced. Hitters that have great gap power, the occasional basher in the mix, good OBP, runs galore, even with David Ortiz getting a well-earned retirement. The lineup is – like the entire team – in a sweet spot with a blend of veterans and youth – especially youth that has yet to (hopefully) fully baseball mature.

The Red Sox bench is also quite formidable. Each position is covered with not borderline talent, but players like Brock Holt – a man without a position – who has been an All-Star. Chris Young proved to be just what was needed for offensive punch either as a member of the lineup or swinging the stick off the bench. The catching squad has the talent pitchers covet most – defensive capabilities. And defense? This team has it. A few Gold Gloves and solid, especially with Mitch Moreland at first.

I have an extra shot – a few extras – of jubilation, optimism and scrounging in the couch for loose change to purchase tickets. This team is gearing up – at least right now.

This team has 100+ wins written all over it. What could possibly go wrong?

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