After the train wreck that was the Red Sox 2012 season, not many people could have imagined the Red Sox would turn things around in such a fashion just one year later.
There is no doubt that the 2012 season was Boston’s worst season since 1965 when the Sox found themselves 40 games back in the division. Bobby Valentine was fired after just one year with the Red Sox in what was described as “a season of agony”. Personalities in the Sox clubhouse did not adjust well to the fiery persona of Valentine. Polar opposite of beloved Terry “Tito”Francona, Valentine alienated fan favorite Kevin Youkilis and butted heads with Dustin Pedroia virtually causing him to lose the clubhouse.
Fast forward almost one year later, a new manager, a slightly different look, and a completely different record. Boston fans are confident that 2013 will bring the 3rd championship ring since 2004. With 14 games left, the Red Sox hold a 8 1/2 game lead in the division, just about solidifying the AL East division title. No stranger to come back wins this year, the Red Sox are appearing tough to beat.
The Red Sox aren’t a sure-fire bet to win the WS though. There are plenty of teams in the mix that have shown some of that magic the Sox have displayed the season.
The Dodgers have shown quite the resiliency this year. Despite injuries,Yasiel Puig lived up to his large contract, arguably the one-two punch of Kershaw and Greinke has combined for 341 strikeouts, and despite of the recent skid, the Dodgers have just clinched the division. There is a lot of pressure on the Dodgers to win a ring this year. If they have an early exit from the playoffs heads are going to roll.
Atlanta continues to fly under the radar while boasting one of the best records in baseball. Detroit and Pittsburgh should not be left in the dark. Pittsburgh secured first winning season since 1992. The storied franchise has five WS titles under their belt, the last in 1909. The Pirates and Cardinals are battling for the division, while Cincinnati is hot on their heels.
The Wild Card in the AL East is as insane as it’s ever been, Baltimore, NY, KC, and Cleveland are knee-deep in the mix, hoping that October magic can be theirs for the taking.
Although, the Red Sox have plenty of competition around them, it is not hard to consider them the favorite. Every year at this time fans get to experience what championship teams are made of, this year is no different. Who will be hoisting the championship trophy in October?
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