The Boston Red Sox did not finish how they expected to in the 2016 American League Division Series against the Cleveland Indians (the Indians then lost to the Chicago Cubs in the 2016 World Series). It was a disappointing loss for the Red Sox, but created fuel for this year’s 2017 season.

The Red Sox have acquired Chicago White Sox star pitcher Chris Sale in the off season, which adds to an already outstanding pitching staff. With the Red Sox having two ace pitchers, David Price and Sale, they are all set on the mound.

Besides the outstanding pitching stars, the Red Sox also have a solid defense behind it, with All-stars Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Xander Bogaerts. Portsmouth High School student Ryan Linchey had this to say, “ these players will have an even bigger year than last year.”

Also, the up-coming Andrew Benintendi will quite possibly be an All-star contender. Brock Holt, the utility man, will play all over. He has played every position other than catcher and pitcher for the Red Sox.

In the batting lineup this year, the Red Sox will have to fill a major role. With the ten-time All-star Designated Hitter David Ortiz, they are losing the backbone of their offense. But, with trading away Travis Shaw and acquiring Mitch Moreland from Texas, their offense will still be good, by putting Moreland at first and moving Hanley Ramirez to DH. PHS high school senior Jake Teti says “even though Big Papi is retiring, I am extremely confident in the Red Sox ability to still have one of the best lineups in the league.”

In all, the Red Sox look to have a great year as one of the top teams in the American League. Between the pitching staff and the lineup, they have one of the best teams on paper. Opening Day is April 3rd of 2017 against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Fenway Park. Go Sox!