The 2013 MLB Season is now about 1/3rd of the way over and there are a few big surprises so far. One very big surprise is the standings of the AL East. Sports Illustrated predicted the order of the standings in this division the exact opposite of what they are as of June 4th, 2013. SI predicted the order of the division being 1. Blue Jays 2. Rays 3. Orioles 4. Yankees. And 5. Red Sox. But to the surprise of many, it is the Red Sox in 1st and the Blue Jays in last. Not many people had seen this coming, even the most optimistic of Red Sox fans had guessed a 2nd to 3rd place finish would be in order, and that would be just okay following their disastrous 93 loss season last year. But the Red Sox have started the year fantastically and are on pace for a 98 win season. Many people have tried to pinpoint exactly what is making the Red Sox so successful this season. I think there are many reasons.
The Boston Red Sox are one of the most successful teams in baseball and there are many factors that are helping them with that. One of the biggest reasons is there very smart approach to free agency in the offseason. The Red Sox stayed away from the big-name signings that had gotten them in trouble in previous years (See, Carl Crawford), and went after more middle-of-the-pack free agents, such as Mike Napoli, Shane Victorino, Ryan Dempster, and Koji Uehara. These players cost much less than some bigger names and have already shown the ability to shine in big markets and under pressure, unlike some past signings (See, Carl Crawford). These newcomers are by no means the only things helping the team though, as veterans that have been with the team for a few years are a huge factor also. David Ortiz is having a career revival, Dustin Pedroia is playing like an MVP, and Daniel Nava is having a career year. Clay Buchholz is pitching like a Cy Young winner, Jon Lester is finally back, and John Lackey is having a comeback year. The Red Sox are surprising everyone this year, but if you look closely, there’s no reason it should be that way.
~ Jake Wallinger