Mike Vrabel didn’t mince words after the Patriots’ preseason finale.

“Not good enough.”

New England’s second- and third-stringers struggled in a 37-13 loss to Cleveland. Last week, Vrabel acknowledged something that became increasingly obvious throughout August: he doesn’t believe this is a particularly deep football team.

He and Eliot Wolf have until Sunday at 6 p.m. ET to figure out who they want to keep and who they’re willing to let go.

My third and final projection has changed considerably since Projection 2.0. The Patriots traded Kayshon Boutte to Houston for safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick, injuries have complicated several decisions, and a handful of players made late pushes.

This projection is based on the players currently in New England’s building. Making the roster Sunday doesn’t guarantee a spot for Week 1. Once the rest of the league makes its cuts, I expect the Patriots to look for upgrades at the bottom of the roster. A few players who survive Sunday could find themselves right back on the bubble depending on who becomes available.

Injuries add another layer to the roster math. I’m projecting Khalil Jacobs and Brenden Schooler to be designated for return from injured reserve at cutdown, meaning neither would count against the initial 53. I’m carrying Marcus Bryant and Ben Brown on the 53 despite their injuries, while my projection assumes Harold Landry is activated from the Active/PUP list before the deadline.

Quarterback

In (2): Drake Maye, Tommy DeVito

Out (1): Behren Morton

Carrying three quarterbacks on the 53 isn’t unusual, but I don’t think Morton has shown enough to justify using the extra roster spot. He had some encouraging moments this preseason, particularly against Philadelphia, but I haven’t seen enough to believe he’s ready to help if New England actually needs its third quarterback.

With Maye and DeVito established ahead of him, I’d rather use that roster spot elsewhere and take my chances getting Morton onto the practice squad.

Running Back

In (3): Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, Hassan Haskins

Out (3): Lan Larison, JaMycal Hasty, Jam Miller

Nobody separated himself in the RB3 competition. Haskins gets the final spot here because of his NFL experience, familiarity with Vrabel and ability to contribute on special teams. His spot would be one I’d revisit after seeing who becomes available around the league.

If Larison and Miller clear waivers, New England could also use practice-squad elevations early in the season if they eventually decide to move on from Haskins rather than committing a permanent roster spot to RB3.

Fullback

In (1): Reggie Gilliam

Gilliam’s blocking, physicality and special-teams contributions make this one of the easier decisions.

Wide Receiver

In (6): A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, Efton Chism III

Out (4): Cameron Dorner, Kyle Dixon, Nick DeGennaro, Tejhuan Palmer

The Boutte trade cleared up what had been one of the more complicated position groups and created a path for Chism to make the roster.

Vrabel also said that Boutte likely would have been inactive barring injuries, with his lack of special-teams play working against him. That’s worth noting when evaluating the bottom of the roster. Williams and Chism can both provide value in the return game.

Williams has incredible athletic traits, but his route tree is still limited. He had an up and down camp, but flashed under the lights, scoring in all three preseason games. The speed and big-play ability are obvious, but the details still need work. New England can live with some of those developmental mistakes because Williams provides an explosive element this offense otherwise lacks.

Chism doesn’t have Williams’ explosiveness, but his ability to contribute as a slot receiver and returner gives him the versatility Vrabel appears to value at the bottom of the roster. With Boutte gone, that’s enough for me to keep both second-year players.

Dixon is another player I’d want back on the practice squad. He’s had a good camp, gives the room some size and capped the preseason with eight catches for 79 yards against Cleveland. I just don’t have room for him on the 53.

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CANNOT Part II – Returning Players CANNOT Underachieve (cont’d)

Training Camp is officially over, the Pats have to get through one more pre-season snoozefest tonight vs. The Cleveland Browns, and we are getting closer to the start of the regular season, with the boys preparing for what some (me) are calling a possible “statement game” to open the NFL season against the defending Super Bowl Champions, and the now forever hated, Seattle Seahawks.

I’m convinced that once we get past tonight, this year for the Patriots is going to be pedal-to-the-metal stuff where every game has a playoff atmosphere and every game brings playoff-level intensity.

Fun times ahead for Patriots Nation!

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Today, we finish up our look at returning players on Offense who CANNOT underachieve in order for the Pats to make it back to the Super Bowl, with a look at a guy who there are VERY HIGH expectations for in 2026.

Some might say “too high”.

But that’s what comes with being a highly touted first-round draft pick in the NFL.

Let’s dive in.

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#4-LT Will Campbell:

Let’s just say that in order for the Pats to make it back to the Super Bowl, the Will Campbell of this year CANNOT equal the Will Campbell of last year.

After an impassioned and emotional draft night commitment to “…fight and die to protect them (Maye) with everything I’ve got.” <footnote 1> and a strong on-field start to 2025, and full-year stats that looked pretty good on paper, there were times when the Will Campbell I saw on-field really struggled to protect Drake Maye and looked more like the second coming of the now departed and formerly heavily criticized Vederian Lowe than the 4th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft!

To be fair, Campbell was injured during the year and missed 4 games with an MCL sprain – not an insignificant injury and not an easy one to recover from. Though he returned in the final regular season game against the Dolphins, he never appeared to fully regain form. His performance protecting Maye in the playoffs and in the Super Bowl in particular has drawn significant (and in my opinion, warranted) scrutiny and criticism.

Things got so bad for Campbell in the Super Bowl – he allowed 14 pressures, the most allowed by any player in a game during the entire 2025 season, including the playoffs - that he walked off the field afterward and refused to take any media questions about his performance, which, as you can imagine, did nothing to enamor him with more than a few NFL reporters and observers who had questions, and smelled chum in the water. <footnote 2>

In response since then, and to his credit, Campbell has been working his tail off rehabbing and fighting to return to first round draft pick form. And through it all, he seems to have kept his chin up, head down, maintained a good attitude, and prepared himself to make a Year 2 jump.

https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2026/08/05/new-england-patriots-will-campbell-nfl-football/

“Patriots teammates believe Will Campbell is ready for Year 2 jump”

That’s REALLY good, because fan patience and perhaps team patience with Campbell is likely to be extremely thin this year.

A picture is worth a thousand words, so I’ll leave you with this one that I took from the back of the end zone at the Patriots’ second head-to-head training camp session with the Philadelphia Eagles:

Yes, I see Drake Maye firing a laser from the pocket, and that is encouraging. But what is even more encouraging is seeing our player of the day, Will Campbell, along with his OL teammates, doing what we absolutely need him and them to do every day and every play in 2026: “Fighting and dying to PROTECT THE FRANCHISE (aka Drake Maye)”.

For the Patriots to return to the Super Bowl this year, Campbell and the Patriots CANNOT have it any other way.

See you next time when we conclude part II by taking a quick look at the returning Defense, which has been under a microscope recently with a myriad of their own potential issues, and a couple of CANNOTs that cannot be ignored.

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Footnotes/Statistical references:

<footnote 1> -

“Will Campbell vowed one thing the moment he got drafted by Patriots”

<footnote 2> - https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-patriots-will-campbell-risks-nfl-punishment-for-super-bowl-lx-antic-as-calls-mount-against-patriots-rookie/

“Will Campbell Risks NFL Punishment for Super Bowl LX Antic as Calls Mount Against Patriots Rookie”

When I released my first 53-man roster projection at the beginning of August, the Patriots were seven practices into training camp. Three weeks, two preseason games and three joint practices later, there is now a whole lot more information to work with.

Some competitions have cleared up while others have gone in directions I didn’t expect. Injuries have reshaped the offensive line, special teams could decide several of the final roster spo

ts, and several young players have forced their way into legitimate roster conversations.

I have 37 players I consider locks, leaving 16 spots where there is still some debate entering Thursday’s preseason finale in Cleveland.

Then Mike Vrabel offered this assessment after Saturday night’s 24-21 win over Philadelphia.

“I do not think we have a very deep team.”

You’ve got to appreciate the honesty.

Here’s my latest projection.

Offense

Quarterbacks (2)

Keeping: Drake Maye, Tommy DeVito
Cutting: Behren Morton

Morton made this decision harder after completing 13 of 17 passes for 129 yards and the game-winning 37-yard touchdown to Nick DeGennaro Saturday night. He also handled emergency punting duties after Bryce Baringer wasn’t feeling well. There’s an argument for keeping him as QB3, but with needs elsewhere, I’m not keeping a third quarterback rostered.

Running Backs (3)

Keeping: Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, JaMycal Hasty
Cutting: Lan Larison, Hassan Haskins, Jam Miller

This is a change from my first projection, when Miller was RB3.

Read more

By “Coach” - Follow on X @NEPatriot_USA

CANNOT Part II – Returning Players CANNOT Underachieve (cont’d)

Before we get started, and as the Patriots prepare to host the Philadelphia Eagles for two head-to-head practice sessions followed by their second preseason game of the year on Saturday, can we talk preseason NFL football?

If as the old sports adage says, “a tie is like kissing your sister”, then what exactly is a tie in a preseason game where most of the starters don’t play, the play on both sides is sloppy, the home team kicker misses 3 field goals, the stands are half-filled, there is no overtime, and the result doesn’t really “count”?

???

This is the somewhat ugly state of preseason NFL football in 2026.

Well, let’s look at it this way, now at 0-0-1, the Patriots run at an undefeated season is still intact lol.

Brace yourselves Patriots Nation as we may see more of this Saturday night vs. The Eagles, although just maybe we will see a Patriots starter or two (Drake Maye for a series, A.J. Brown vs. his former team)???!!!

We shall see.

Today in this ongoing part 2 of things that CANNOT happen for the Patriots to make it back to the Super Bowl, we continue our look at players on offense from last year who absolutely CANNOT underperform this year.

Ready? Let’s go.

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On the heels of the aforementioned Patriots Colts preseason debacle, Greg Bedard on X posed an interesting and I think legitimate question:

The Patriots certainly have brought in a myriad of players to compete at running back, which is really important especially if our RB1 or RB2 go down for any reason. They already have Jam Miller, and Lan Larison in full-on-competition, both who played (reasonably) well against the Colts, and have recently added Hassan Haskins and JaMycal Hasty (4th time Patriot!) to the mix.

So, what gives?

For the record, I do think there is some cause for some concern at the position, especially if things don’t go just right with our primary mainstay running backs.

We previously covered RB#1 (Rhamondre Stevenson CANNOT fumble) and today focus our concern on RB#2: highly touted and regarded second-year player, TreVeyon Henderson.

First I want to start with what I really like about TreVeyon: Intensity. Quickness. Speed. Toughness. Competitive nature. His faith. All evidenced by watching his play on the field.

TreVeyon is truly cut in the Belichick “No Days Off” player mode, someone who gives it 100% every time he is on the field no matter the play. And his efforts paid off for him, and the Patriots, in 2025.

HOWEVER - with as good of a rookie year as TreVeyon had (911 yards, 5.1 yards per carry, four 50-yard touchdown runs), we also unfortunately witnessed, especially as the year progressed, that the Patriots CANNOT rely on him as option 1 to pick up a first down, especially on third-and-short.

One glaring statistic from last year pulled from sumersports.com fully illustrates my concern: Henderson converted only 25% of his rushing attempts into first downs, ranking him 46th among qualifying running backs. <footnote 1>

46th!

This all became very frustrating to watch as the season went on, because undoubtedly, not unlike the teams they were playing, on third-and-short, a) you knew the ball was going to Henderson (I’m looking at you Josh McDaniels!) and b) you could pretty much predict the outcome.

4th down.

At training camp a few weeks back, this VERY SAME ISSUE surfaced and was reported on by Greg Bedard of the Boston Sports Journal via @Savage on X:

The key comment: “He (TreVeyon) had 10 rushing attempts in team, 7 of them were stuffed at the line of scrimmage. So almost a continuation of last year.”

OOH BOY…!

So what should we expect from Henderson and the Patriots this year?

Perhaps now with a true blocking fullback on board (Gilliam), with Stevenson fully recovered from his toe injury, and with other new offensive weapons at Drake Maye’s disposal (A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs), Henderson will be mostly relieved of these third-and-short, run up the middle type duties, and can go back to being used as a “scatback” (“A small lightweight running back valued for speed rather than power”<footnote 2>), bouncing outside for big gains, catching swing passes out of the backfield, or maybe even occasionally lining up in the slot running short Julian Edelman type crossing routes to keep defenses off guard? All in the spirit of Patriot greats Kevin Faulk, Dion Lewis, Shane Vereen (rewatch Vereen highlights if you’re questioning this one), and James White.

That’s the sort of play we need from Henderson this year all year if the Patriots are to make a real run at returning to the Super Bowl.

The Patriots simply CANNOT have it any other way.

Agree? Disagree? Drop your comments below.

Next time: one blatantly obvious offensive lineman that we CANNOT ignore.

Continue to enjoy the lead up to the season!

Footnotes/Statistical references:

1- https://sumersports.com/players/5b581bc/treveyon-henderson/

2-“scatback”: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scatback

There are two ways to look at the 2026-27 Boston Bruins.

You can look at last season’s 100-point campaign and say it was a pleasant surprise: a team that wasn’t supposed to be good enough to make the playoffs somehow found a way to win 45 games.

Or you can look at it and say: Maybe this is the beginning of something.

I’m choosing the second option.

Not because I think the Bruins are a Stanley Cup favorite. They’re not. Not yet, anyway. There are still too many questions at center. There are still questions on defense. And this team is relying heavily on a group of young players who haven’t yet proven they can carry an NHL team through an 82-game season.

Boston’s 2025-26 season changed the timeline in my opinion. The Bruins weren’t supposed to win 100 points.

They did.

They weren’t supposed to get another monster season from Jeremy Swayman.

They did.

Pavel Zacha took another step. Fraser Minten showed he belonged. The power play went from one of the league’s worst to one of its better units. And now Boston has added JJ Peterka, who is only 24 years old and has scored at least 25 goals in each of his last three seasons.

Then there’s James Hagens. And that’s where things get really interesting.

So, with training camp still ahead and plenty of time for things to change, here’s my prediction for how the Bruins will line up, how their players will perform, and where I think this team ultimately ends up.

My Projected Forward Lines

Line 1

JJ Peterka — Fraser Minten — David Pastrnak

Line 2

Casey Mittelstadt — Pavel Zacha — Morgan Geekie

Line 3

Marat Khusnutdinov — Elias Lindholm — James Hagens

Line 4

Tanner Jeannot — Matthew Poitras — Mark Kastelic

Yes. I have Fraser Minten centering David Pastrnak and JJ Peterka. And yes, I know that’s a little crazy. But hear me out.

Line 1: Peterka — Minten — Pastrnak

This is the biggest gamble I’m making in this entire projection. It’s also the one I think could pay off the most.

Pastrnak doesn’t need an introduction. He’s still the superstar, still the guy Boston is going to lean on when the game is on the line, and still the player who can turn a 2-1 game into a 4-1 game in about four minutes.

Peterka is the new piece.

Boston acquired him because they needed another dynamic offensive player. The Bruins believe his speed and shooting ability can complement Pastrnak, and NHL.com projects him as one of the team’s biggest bounce-back candidates entering 2026-27.

But the interesting piece is Minten.

I don’t think Boston needs another center who is simply good at taking faceoffs and making safe plays. They need someone who can eventually become a legitimate top-six center.

Minten has the size, intelligence, and two-way game to make this work. And putting him between two dangerous wingers could allow him to focus on the things he does best rather than asking him to become a 70-point player overnight.

If Minten can win battles, move the puck, and give Pastrnak and Peterka room to operate, this line could be a nightmare.

My projection:

David Pastrnak — 80 GP, 47 G, 58 A, 105 PTS

JJ Peterka — 82 GP, 32 G, 39 A, 71 PTS

Fraser Minten — 80 GP, 17 G, 32 A, 49 PTS

These are numbers that you need to see from your first line. And if Minten actually becomes a 50-point center while playing with Pastrnak, then Boston might have really found something.

Line 2: Mittelstadt — Zacha — Geekie

This is the line that makes me feel better about putting Minten on the top line, because this is a pretty good second line.

Geekie set a career high in goals with 33 in 2024-25, and then went out and topped that number again with 39 in 2025-26. Yes, he can be a streaky player prone to stretches where his goal-scoring dries up, but the fact remains that he has begun to prove himself to be a legitimate goal-scoring threat in the NHL. Mittelstadt has never been an elite offensive producer in the NHL, but he matched his career high in goals last season with 15. He proved himself to be a solid veteran, capable of chipping in offensively while strengthening his defensive game in the process. The B’s will need both of these guys going if they are going to crack the playoffs in a stacked Atlantic Division.

The key to unlocking both of these guys has been Zacha. In 2024-25, Zacha centered Geekie and Pastrnak for much of the year. Last year, he centered Mittelstadt and Arvidsson for most of the year, in what was arguably the Bruins’ most consistent line from start to finish.

Zacha scored a career-high 65 points last season, including 30 goals. That’s not something I expect to disappear. I think there’s another level there.

My projection:

Pavel Zacha — 81 GP, 26 G, 43 A, 69 PTS

Casey Mittelstadt — 78 GP, 18 G, 32 A, 50 PTS

Morgan Geekie — 79 GP, 24 G, 32 A, 56 PTS

That’s almost 175 points from the second line.

If Boston gets that kind of production, suddenly the criticism that the Bruins don’t have enough scoring starts to sound a little dated.

Line 3: Khusnutdinov — Lindholm — Hagens

This is the line everyone is going to watch. Especially Hagens. The seventh overall pick in 2025 is the organization’s biggest piece of hope for the future, and NHL.com has him projected as Boston’s rookie to watch this season.

But I’m not putting him on the first line.

I’m not putting him on the second line.

I’m going to let him start here.

And I actually think that’s the right move.

Put him next to a veteran center like Elias Lindholm and a young, talented player like Marat Khusnutdinov. Give him offensive opportunities without asking him to carry the team.

Let him grow.

Let him make mistakes.

And then see where he is in March.

My projection:

James Hagens — 74 GP, 16 G, 29 A, 45 PTS

Elias Lindholm — 78 GP, 18 G, 34 A, 52 PTS

Marat Khusnutdinov — 78 GP, 12 G, 23 A, 35 PTS

Forty-five points as a 19-year-old would be an excellent rookie season.

And if Hagens gets hot?

Don’t be surprised if he’s playing top-six minutes by Christmas.

Line 4: Jeannot — Poitras — Kastelic

This might be the most underrated line on the roster.

Tanner Jeannot gives it physicality.

Mark Kastelic gives it size, speed, and tenacity.

And Matthew Poitras gets another opportunity to prove that he belongs in Boston’s long-term plans.

Poitras is the wild card. I still think there’s a legitimate NHL player there. I’m just not convinced yet that we know exactly what he is.

So let’s give him sheltered minutes, let him play with two physical forwards, and see if he can create offense.

My projection:

Matthew Poitras — 70 GP, 12 G, 20 A, 32 PTS

Tanner Jeannot — 74 GP, 10 G, 12 A, 22 PTS

Mark Kastelic — 68 GP, 7 G, 10 A, 17 PTS

That’s enough. The fourth line doesn’t need to score 50 goals. It needs to be miserable to play against. I think this trio will absolutely deliver in that department, and all three players have some offensive ability in their tool belts as well. If they can bring the physicality, be thorns in the side of opposing teams, and chip in the occasional goal, that is all you can ask for from your fourth line.

The big change here is Poitras in the center spot over veteran forward Sean Kuraly. Kuraly was a bottom-six mainstay in his first stint in Boston, and did a more than adequate job in the role last year in his return tour. He has been a good veteran and a good soldier for Boston, but in my opinion, Poitras gives that added speed and skill to this group that Neely and Sweeney have talked about all off-season.

The Defense

Here’s my projected blue line:

Pair 1

Hampus Lindholm — Charlie McAvoy

Pair 2

Mason Lohrei — Will Borgen

Pair 3

Nikita Zadorov — Connor Clifton

Seventh defenseman

Frederic Brunet

I really like this group. There are questions, but there is also upside.

Lindholm — McAvoy

This is the pairing I want to see.

Charlie McAvoy is still the guy. He’s the No. 1 defenseman. He’s going to play 23-plus minutes. He’s going to kill penalties. He’s going to play the power play. He’s going to get thrown over the boards when Boston needs a goal.

But pairing him with a healthy Hampus Lindholm could be huge. For as long as Hampus Lindholm has been a Boston Bruin, I have believed that he should be the left-shot partner on the top pairing with Charlie McAvoy. Obviously, at this stage of his career, health will always be a question mark for Hampus. When healthy, though, he is a smooth-skating, big-bodied defenseman capable of logging heavy minutes against other teams’ top lines. If Lindholm is healthy, this is a legitimate top pairing.

My projection:

Charlie McAvoy — 80 GP, 10 G, 47 A, 57 PTS

Hampus Lindholm — 74 GP, 7 G, 31 A, 38 PTS

The biggest word there is healthy. Boston needs Lindholm in the lineup.

Lohrei — Borgen

This is where I am making another prediction. Mason Lohrei is going to break out. Maybe not into a 50-point defenseman. But into a legitimate top-four guy. I have to credit Dom Tiano for helping me come around on this take, because by the end of last year’s playoff series with Buffalo, when he was a healthy scratch, I was convinced he would be getting shipped out of town. And I wasn’t upset about it. Dom’s thoughts about the coaching staff really impacting Lohrei resonated, though, and he believes that Mcllvane could be the fresh perspective and voice that may help unlock Lohrei’s underlying talent.

And that’s a huge development for Boston. Lohrei has the puck-moving ability this blue line needs. Borgen can provide the defensive stability. It’s a classic “offense + defense” pairing.

If Lohrei takes the next step, the Bruins have something.

My projection:

Mason Lohrei — 76 GP, 6 G, 25 A, 31 PTS

Will Borgen — 78 GP, 5 G, 22 A, 27 PTS

Thirty points from Lohrei would be a very good season.

But more importantly, I’d like to see him become a defenseman Boston trusts in big situations.

Zadorov — Clifton

The last pairing has the potential to be my favorite of the bunch. Nikita Zadorov has endeared himself to Bruins fans in his first two seasons in Boston with his physical, on-the-edge brand of hockey. The big Russian uses his 6’5”, 220lb frame to inflict damage on opposing players whenever he has the opportunity. He will drop the gloves, stick up for teammates, and has shown leadership off the ice as well, where he’s clearly earned the respect of his teammates and is always willing to interact with the media. I think the third pair is the right spot for him, taking him away from the opposing top-6 as much as possible, freeing him up to play his brand of hockey and muck it up with the opposing 3rd and 4th liners. Connor “Cliffy” Clifton makes his return to Boston after a three-year hiatus that saw him play two seasons in Buffalo and one season in Pittsburgh. In my opinion, he is the perfect partner for Zadorov as the right-shooting defenseman who is a solid skater and puck mover. He is also not afraid to play physical and mix it up when the situation calls for it, despite his smaller frame.

My projection:

Nikita Zadorov — 76 GP, 5 G, 16 A, 21 PTS

Connor Clifton — 72 GP, 3 G, 15 A, 18 PTS

Seventh Defenseman: Frederic Brunet

I’m giving Frederic Brunet the seventh spot. He probably won’t play every night, but he’s going to get opportunities. And if one of the top six struggles or an injury hits, he’s the guy I expect to get the first call.

Projection:

Brunet — 35 GP, 2 G, 8 A, 10 PTS

Goaltending

Jeremy Swayman

This is the easiest prediction on the team.

Swayman is the guy.

He was a Vezina finalist last season and established himself as one of the best goaltenders in the league. NHL.com currently has him projected for another strong season.

My projection:

62 GP — 35 W — .918 SV% — 2.43 GAA

If Swayman gives Boston that level of goaltending again, they’re going to be in the playoff race all year.

Michael DiPietro

DiPietro seems in line to finally graduate from the AHL to the NHL and lock down the backup spot in Boston this year. The 27-year-old netminder has had a bit of a journeyman-type AHL career since turning pro in 2019, but really found his footing over the past two seasons in Providence. Last year, he finished with a very impressive record of 34-8-1 to go along with a ridiculous GAA of 1.91 and a save percentage of .930. All signs currently point to him having the inside track to being Swayman’s backup this season.

My projection:

20 GP — 10 W — .912 SV% — 2.55 GAA

The Bruins don’t need him to steal the job. They need him to give Swayman a legitimate break.

The Five Things I’m Watching

1. Fraser Minten

If Minten can legitimately center Pastrnak and Peterka, Boston might have solved a massive problem without making another blockbuster trade.

2. James Hagens

Don’t worry about the points.

Watch how quickly he starts looking comfortable.

3. Mason Lohrei

If Lohrei becomes a legitimate top-four defenseman, this blue line looks dramatically different.

4. Elias Lindholm

This is the bounce-back candidate.

Boston doesn’t need 70 points.

It needs Lindholm to be a reliable, two-way center.

5. Jeremy Swayman

Because ultimately, this is still the Boston Bruins.

And if there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that having a goalie who can steal games matters.

Final Thoughts

Ever the optimist, it is not in my nature to live in the doom and gloom, especially in August before training camp has even opened. I am not sitting here telling you that Boston is a Stanley Cup contender. At this stage, they are not. However, as I project what I think this team could look like, I genuinely believe they have some serious upside.

Sure, there are plenty of question marks on which their overall success will ultimately hinge. There are several young guys that you will need to see take another big step in their individual progressions as NHL players. Players like Minten, Khustnutdinov, Hagens, Lohrei, and Poitras will be key factors. I would even put Peterka on this list, as the 24-year-old needs to prove he is a consistent NHL goal scorer and put to bed any concerns there may be when you consider he is joining his third NHL team in three seasons.

Health is another big factor, though you could make this case for just about every team in the NHL. They need to stay healthy. If they can avoid catastrophic injuries throughout the season, I think they will be in line to improve on their 100-point season from a year ago.

Training camp can’t come soon enough. Bruins fans everywhere should be brimming with excitement as the calendar turns to September in a couple of weeks. How this roster ultimately shakes out will no doubt be an interesting process.

“WOO HOO, the world is alright again, we signed our very own #1 Tight End Hunter Henry to a 2 year extension that likely keeps him a Patriot the rest of his playing career! He has been FANTASTIC for us – and we are SO lucky to have him, and to have gotten this done!”

(said with no small measure of sarcasm)

Did I capture the expressed reaction to this right?

My reaction? “Hmmm…” Not so fast!

Today, I continue my personal glass-half-empty CANNOT series - these things CANNOT happen if the Patriots are to return to the Super Bowl - with a continued focus on “returning players who CANNOT underachieve”.

And today’s focus is on: GUESS WHO?

That’s right folks – our very own #1 recently re-signed Tight End, Hunter Henry. And please know I’ve had this one in the hopper stewing on releasing it for over a month.

Let’s get into it.

CANNOT #2B – TE#1 Hunter Henry CANNOT fail to be the game-impacting receiver that the Patriots need him to be.

There I said it. Contract extension or no contract extension.

Now in his 6^th year with the team, Henry has become a fan favorite. He typically runs good routes, catches most balls that come his way, is tough and stays on the field. By all accounts statistically, he had a very good year in 2025, catching 60 balls on 87 targets for 768 yards (career high), averaging 12.8 yards per catch, and scoring 7 touchdowns. <footnote 1>

Excellent production…especially on paper.

HOWEVER, I didn’t like what my eyes saw happening on the field with Henry especially as the year progressed.

Check out these underwhelming full game stat lines:

• Week 2 vs. Dolphins: 1 catch on 3 targets for 9 yards

• Week 8 vs. Browns: 1 catch on 1 target for 7 yards (1 TD)

• Week 10 vs. Buccaneers: 1 catch on 4 targets for 9 yards

• Week 15 vs. Bills: 1 catch on 3 targets for 18 yards

• Divisional Playoff vs. Texans: 1 catch on 2 targets for 5 yards.

• AFC Championship vs Broncos: 2 catches on 3 targets for 12 yards.

<footnote 2>

Friends, that’s a total of 7 catches on 16 targets for 60 yards and 1 TD OVER 6 GAMES. Not including the Super Bowl where he added a meager 3 receptions for 31 yards, mostly due to Drake Maye being put on his back for most of the game.

This sort of production CANNOT be the new Henry standard. Or any #1 Patriots Tight End standard. No matter what the other stats on paper say.

I contend that teams got familiar with Henry’s routes and took advantage of his perhaps slowing way down over the course of the year.

Now entering his 11^th season in the league, a year older (32 this December), with no Austin Hooper (not re-signed), no Julian Hill (season-ending injury), and with promising but yet unproven rookies Eli Raridon, or Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA) Tanner Arkin potentially on the other side opposing defenses could be poised to put an even bigger defensive blanket around Henry.

And friends, that would mean big, BIG trouble for Drake Maye and the Patriots in their attempt to go back-to-back. We need a Gronk-like effort from #85 all year long and CANNOT settle for anything less. We’re talking about returning to the Super Bowl, after all!

Don’t get me wrong, I like Henry and think he has been great for us - but this one actually concerns me.

How ‘bout you Patriots Nation?

Drop your thoughts and comments below.

Next time, we take a look at another now familiar offensive weapon who CANNOT underperform.

Meanwhile, continue to enjoy the lead up to the season!

Footnotes/Statistical references:

<footnote 1> - https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HenrHu00.htm

<footnote 2> - https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HenrHu00/gamelog/2025

Who has it better than us right now? Nobody, that’s who! The Red Sox (63-51) swept the Chicago White Sox (59-55) this week to cement themselves as one of, if not the, best teams in the American League this year. For the first time in a long time, the Red Sox are the number one story in all of sports.

General Thoughts

I went to the games on Tuesday and Wednesday. The atmosphere in Fenway right now is otherworldly. The park is packed, the drinks are flowing, and the Sox are delivering on an unprecedented level. What more could you want? We are in the midst of a perfect summer.

As a baseball fan, I tend to be superstitious. In previous years, I’d spend time worrying that if I don’t do this or don’t do that, the Sox would stop playing well. The season would crumble at our feet because I didn’t sit in my usual spot on the couch. Our ace would get shelled because I missed a pitch. Stupid shit like that (which is probably some undiagnosed form of OCD) would dominate my mind.

Not this year. I’ve let go of the superstitions–this team has a magic that we’ve never seen before. No matter the situation, someone always seems to come up big. Opportunities that the other team squanders are always capitalized on.

I bring this up because I did not attend Thursday night even though I had a ticket. Why miss a game in the middle of this run? My back was starting to give out by the eighth inning on Wednesday (standing room only seats, ever heard of them?) and I wanted to make sure I wasn’t on the IL for the weekend series. Load management, if you will.

Watching the game play out from the couch would have been a torturous occasion for the old me. Last night? I sat there with a smile and soaked it all in. It always felt like they were going to come back and win. When they did, there was a little bit of a relief, but also a reassurance that they’re on a mission from God. The only thing that can stop them now is themselves and they don’t give off a vibe that they’re done yet.

I’m starting to learn that you cannot jinx what has already happened. Everything from this point forward is gravy. We were given our summer back. We were given memories that we’ll take with us for the rest of our lives. The run the team has been on is as improbable as anyone alive has seen.

Since the All-Star Break, the team is 16-3. They are 31-5 since June 25th. Chad Tracy’s record as manager of the Boston Red Sox is nearly 20 games over .500. It’s hard to put together this type of run in MLB The Show; these guys are doing it to real teams night after night.

Still somehow not sold on this run? Pick up the paper and read the updates on the guys currently on the injured list. That’s the cavalry coming. A second trade deadline. Roman Anthony, Garrett Crochet, Adley Rutschman (and Trevor Story, yuck) are making progress towards a return. Rutschman seems to be the closest of the bunch, but the thought of potentially slotting those four guys into a lineup clicking at this level should make even the most casual of fans salivate. There is real hope to contend for a World Series.

There is nothing better than when the Red Sox are playing well. The city is buzzing about baseball again. It brings a tear to me eye, laddy.

In every recap henceforth, we shall be keeping track of the playoff race. FanGraphs has us at a 95.9% chance to make the dance this year, so it’s probably time to start scoreboard watching every night. Updated numbers below. With the White Sox sweep complete, we will finish 2026 a perfect 6-0 against the AL Central leaders.

• Against division leaders:

  • Rays (68-46) → 5-5, 3 games remaining (9/18-9/20)

  • White Sox (59-55) → 6-0, 0 games remaining (8/4-8/6)

  • Astros (59-57) → 1-5, 0 games remaining

• Record against WC-hopeful teams:

  • Yankees (64-51) → 5-4, 3 games remaining (8/28-8/30)

  • Rangers (57-58) → 2-1, 3 games remaining (9/15-9/17)

  • Twins (57-59) → 1-5, 0 games remaining

  • Guardians (57-59) → 2-1, 3 games remaining (9/22-9/24)

  • Orioles (56-59) → 5-4, 4 games remaining (9/3-9/6)

  • Tigers (56-59) → 5-2, 0 games remaining

  • Mariners (56-60) → 2-1, 3 games remaining (8/31-9/2)

  • Blue Jays (54-62) → 3-6, 4 games remaining (8/10-8/13)

  • Royals (48-68) → 3-0, 3 games remaining (9/11-9/13)

  • A’s (45-70) → 3-1, 3 games remaining (8/7-8/9)

  • Angels (44-71) → 3-0, 3 games remaining (9/7-9/9)

There are some absolutely massive series on the horizon for the Sox. While this upcoming one against the A’s doesn’t really qualify if you’re talking about team-specific tiebreakers, a sweep would surely help you make up that final half game we sit behind the Yankees. The division isn’t out of reach!

Sox Notes

Game one was a rout which saw the offense explode for 14 runs (second most runs scored on the year). Everyone in the park knew the game was over after Durbin’s grand slam in the first inning. That’s the thing about good teams–they do not look back when they have the momentum. Things build off of each other and they keep creating opportunities for themselves to inflict more damage.

Lou’s little laugh while Durbin runs the bases is very funny. He knows the vibes are immaculate right now.

Patrick Sandoval got the win despite looking shaky at times. He only allowed two earned runs on six hits and four walks, but it was enough to keep the White Sox in check in the early frames. He has yet to complete more than five innings in his five starts with the team. Interestingly enough, the Sox have won every game that he’s started. That doesn’t make me feel any better if we have to rely on him during the stretch, though. His underlying metrics point to a guy who’s gonna have a blow up outing soon.

Chad Tracy’s usage of Erik Miller was great. Obviously, Greg Weissert was less than enthused about being pulled before he could get out of the inning, but using Miller in that spot was a smart way to get him acclimated to the team. Getting a strikeout to get out of that weird sixth inning put him in good graces with the Fenway Faithful and helps to build his confidence with a new team.

Massive shout out to Brayan Bello for grabbing his first save of his career. He went three strong innings in relief (how often do you see a save in a 12-run game?) and after the outing sat at a 0.64 ERA in 42 IP in the role. While many fans wanted him to figure things out and reclaim his spot in the rotation, I am more than fine relying on him in these types of spots going forward. Playoff baseball often brings situations where the starter gets the hook early. Who better to come out in a long-relief role than him? He’s the best in the league!

Game two was less exciting from a run scoring perspective, but still a great showcase of how many ways this team can win ballgames.

Sonny Gray picked up his 14th win of the year (tied for most in MLB) and lowered his ERA to 2.78. Remember when people said that he wasn’t a number two starter after Craig acquired him this offseason? Weirdly enough, they were right. He’s pitching like a number one and is fourth in AL Cy Young odds on Fanduel.

Tyron Guerrero and Garrett Whitlock both picked up a Hold for their work in this game, combining to allow one hit while striking out three in two innings of work. This bullpen is operating on a different level. Night after night, the lead feels safe when it gets into their hands. Giovani Moran ultimately closed out the game after Durbin drove in Wilyer in the bottom of the eighth, erasing the possibility of a save for Chapman. It’s always a good thing to get your closer some extra rest.

Last night’s come-from-behind (multiple times) victory was one of the best regular season games I can remember. After going down 4-0 early, the Sox eventually clawed back to tie the game at five in the middle innings. From there, it was a back and forth affair that did not end until Principal Durbin walked it off in the bottom of the 13th.

Ranger Suarez pitched like ass, allowing three earned runs on three hits in three innings while striking out three. Lot of threes for him last night; it’s probably what I’d grade his outing out of ten. I’m not sure what’s going on with Ranger, but it doesn’t appear that he’s fully healthy yet. Since returning from the IL on 7/26, he’s posted a 4.63 ERA in three starts (11.2IP) while allowing 11 hits, walking four, and striking out 11. His FIP is a bit better (3.61) but we need Ranger to kick back into form if this team is gonna remain hot. You can’t rely on 12-run outbursts from the offense to save you down the stretch. Like Sandoval, the Sox are 3-0 in games that he’s started even though he’s not pitching like he should. Baseball can be weird sometimes.

Bello came back out of the pen last night in a heroic showing. I’m sure he’s never pitched on one day’s rest in his entire life. Not only did he keep the game close, he somehow didn’t allow the ghost runner to score in the 13th. Yeah, he was a little wild when he first stepped on the mound in the 12th, but he settled in, found his rhythm, and helped the Sox secure the win. Bello now has a 0.61 ERA out of the pen (and was pumping 98 mph CHED in the 12th).

There are so many guys who did the little things correctly in the late frames it makes you wonder how different this game would have gone with Cora at the helm. It feels like everyone has fully bought into what Chad Tracy brings as manager. Where he goes, they follow.

The game was the longest of the season at four hours and twenty three minutes. Sure glad I didn’t try to force my back to power through that one, definitely am not jealous of everyone who stayed late and got to see a wonderful walk-off. The longest game before last night was played on March 28th against the Reds, a game the Sox lost, which took three hours and thirty two minutes. Beat that one by a decent chunk.

Wilyer Abreu is in the middle of one of his hot streaks, hitting .438 with four homers and six RBIs over the last four games. His defense remains spectacular. He leads all right fielders with a +21 Defensive Runs Saved on the year. The next closest is Cubs RF Seiya Suzuki at +11.

According to bossportsinf on Twitter, Andruw Monasterio is second in the AL in OPS since July 1 at 1.013. He trails only Yordan Alvarez (1.189). The guy is a doubles machine! His bat has been so good I’m willing to look past his complete inability to be consistent at short. Whateva bro, keep raking!

Stats pointed this out last night, but special shout out to Masataka Yoshida, who is hitting .318/.378/.515 over his last 96 PAs with eight walks and only eight strikeouts. Masa always seemed like a guy whose ceiling was impacted by his inability to get consistent at bats. Since taking over the full-time DH role, he’s showing all of us just how mismanaged his career has been in Boston. You give him the runway and he is going to start producing. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him succeed after a tumultuous few years here.

Alex Speier wrote about how bench coach Jose David Flores put together a hype video for the team to showcase how special Fenway is. Apparently, the motivation tactic worked as the team has a 15-4 home record since the video’s debut. These are the little things that a good coaching staff can do to impact the team off the field. To read about how much Fenway can impact the actual baseball being played on the field is amazing. It makes you happy to be a fan of the team. Connections all around!

Dating back to the start of the A’s series, Jarren Duran is hitting .263 with two homers, four RBIs and six runs scored. He gunned out a runner at the plate in a crucial point of last night’s game, to boot. I know I’ve been harsh on Duran, but I’m not gonna pooh-pooh a guy if he’s positively contributing to the team. Speier also wrote about how Duran thought he was gonna be released around the deadline. Makes you wonder what they were telling him in the run-up to it all. As always, it’ll be interesting to see what he does next.

The Red Sox are a perfect 6-0 in the month of August and will head into the next series against the A’s on an eight-game win streak. Are we on the precipice of yet another long winning streak? If anyone believes they can do it, it’s this team. Don’t forget what Willson said last week!

What’s Ahead

The Sacramento Athletics (45-70) will saunter into Fenway Park on Friday with the second-worst record in the American League. They are 1-9 in their last 10 games, with the one win being against the Red Sox on 7/28.

LHP Payton Tolle (6-6, 3.30 ERA) gets the ball in game one against RHP Jack Perkins (2-7, 6.72 ERA). Tolle has crossed the 90-pitch mark just once since June 9th, so traditional wisdom would say he won’t last super long. He’s tallied 30 strikeouts in his last four outings (20.2IP).

LHP Jake Bennet (7-4, 2.90 ERA) will toe the rubber on Saturday afternoon against LHP Gage Jump (4-7, 4.59 ERA). Bennett has let up three earned runs in each of his last three starts. While that probably won’t kill him against the A’s, it would be nice to see a return to form for him this weekend.

A’s LHP JT Ginn (8-6, 3.51 ERA) will get the nod in the series finale. The Sox were planning on this being a bullpen game, but with the bullpen absolutely devastated in last night’s 13-inning marathon, we may see some roster shuffling to get someone from AAA up here for a spot-start. From what I’ve seen on Twitter, RHP Blake Wehunt is lined up to start for the WooSox on Sunday. He’s pitched well this season (6-5, 3.58 ERA), but has not gone more than 5.2IP since June 28th.

Young Athletics superstar 1B Nick Kurtz is on the IL with a finger injury and won’t play in this series. Sounds like the injury happened when Patrick Sandoval beaned him last series, but it also may be a reaggravation of a prior injury? I dunno, I’m not a doctor. He’s not playing, that’s all that matters.

I’ll be in attendance for the games on Friday and Sunday. I bring a 6-2 record on the year, for those wondering at home.

I said in my last recap that if the Sox were to sweep the Sox, it would mean that we were all-in. I couldn’t agree with my past self more. This team is completely bought into the idea of a World Series run. They need to sweep the A’s to get closer to that dream.

2026 Record by Series Game:
Game 1: 21-16
Game 2: 22-14*
Game 3: 17-20*
Game 4: 3-1
*game two of the rained-out Yankees series still to be played August 29th.

Chad Tracy: 53-34 record (.609 win%)
7 for 17 in challenges (41.2%)
1 ejection
85 attempted steals of second (33% more than league average)
11 attempted steals of third (29% more than league average)
24 sac bunt attempts (89% more than league average)

FanGraphs Playoff Odds: 95.9%
Series 19: 26.3%
Series 20: 23.1%
Series 21: 21.3%
Series 22: 12.2%
Series 23: 16.1%
Series 24: 9.7%
Series 25: 10.8%
Series 27: 18%
Series 30: 30.4%
Series 31: 39.9%
All-Star Break: 40.1%
Series 32: 58.3%
Series 33: 61.0%
Series 35: 68.1%
Series 26: 85.4%

2026 Season Confidence: B+

World Series Odds: +1100 (down from +1400 last recap, fifth best in MLB)

Sox-Related Bets: Red Sox Over 87.5 wins +100 6U, Red Sox win American League +700 1U, Red Sox to win AL East +325 1U, Garrett Crochet Cy Young +450 10U, Roman Anthony MVP +2200 1U, Roman Anthony MVP +2000 5U, Roman Anthony MVP +1700 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1400 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1800 5U, Roman Anthony to win AL MVP & Garrett Crochet to win AL Cy Young +7500 1U, Boston Red Sox Longest Reg Season Win Streak – Over 7.5 Wins +100 1U, Roman Anthony Over 65½ RBIs -115 2U
Note: I crossed a lot of these out when the going was bad…now? Who knows! But I won’t be uncrossing them. I don’t need to jinx anything.

Blind Trust List: Wally the Green Monster, Willson Contreras, Aroldis Chapman, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, Jake Bennett, Caleb Durbin????

The summer of the Sox (60-51) continued this weekend as the hottest team in baseball took down the clear-cut, World Series-favorite Dodgers (69-43) in three straight games. There are very few words to describe how crazy this all is. With the trade deadline now complete, we have a finalized picture of this team going forward. Here’s to hoping Craig’s big brain gets us back to LA in October.

General Thoughts

This was one of the craziest regular season series in quite some time. It’s fair to say that most of us were feeling confident headed into the series, but for the Sox to sweep the Dodgers is something not many really saw coming. They may have “predicted” sweeps, but in the back of their minds they surely held a bit of doubt.

All of that doubt should be wiped away. The 2026 season now has all possible endings including a World Series title. The annoying fans will point out that the Dodgers weren’t at full health. OK, and? We still swept them. What else could they have done? If you told me in the beginning of June that we’d enter LA, sweep the Dodgers, and exit only nine games behind them in the standings I would have called the mental health crisis hotline for you.

The Red Sox have an 85.4% chance of making the playoffs, according to FanGraphs. While the odds to win the division are still small (10.5%), anything can happen in these next two months. With the way things are going…ya never know!

My general thoughts will stay brief this recap due to the trade deadline. All I want you to remember is this: enjoy what we have. You never know when it’s going to end. It could be tomorrow or it could be on Halloween. Whatever the case may be, do not take this season for granted. We’re in the midst of some weird voodoo magic!

Sox Notes

Ceddanne Rafaela could be the next coming of Jesus Christ. Since the start of the A’s series, he’s hitting .419/.419/.968/1.387 with five homers, 11 RBIs, and a 283 wRC+. His homer in the seventh on Friday propelled them to victory. His two-homer performance on Saturday was electric (and propelled them to victory again). His homer on Sunday was the cherry on top of it all. This series felt like his true arrival. With the entire league paying attention to this series because of how hot the Sox have been and the fact that the Dodgers just traded for, arguably, the best pitcher of the last few years, Ceddanne stole the show.

With all of the success he’s found this year, Rafaela still has the opportunity to improve his game further in the offseason. His underlying metrics are not phenomenal; he’s in the 12th percentile xwOBA, 44th percentile xBA, 24th percentile xSLG, and 13th percentile Average Exit Velocity. He’s chasing a ton (42.2%) and walking at an infinitesimal rate (4.1%). The Savant page reads like he should be akin to JBJ, yet he’s dominating actual baseball games. His defense alone makes him a valuable piece for the future. If he can continue doing what he’s done at the plate? He’s going to prove Pap right and win an MVP. I love watching him play.

It was good to see Contreras come back for Sunday’s game after getting beaned in the head on Friday. He clearly had a concussion. In what world does the WC40 we all know and love not charge the mound after getting one off the dome? His brains were scrambled eggs.

He’s in the middle of a cold streak and is hitting just .160/.417/.280 with one homer and one RBI since July 24th. This feels like the first true cold snap of his season, so I’m gonna turn a blind eye on this for now. If it keeps up for another series, we may have to talk about it more.

The early hook for Ranger on Friday was confusing, especially since Moran promptly let up a homer to Ohtani in the next at-bat. While Ranger still sports a great ERA (3.15), I’m gonna need him to go deeper into games from here on out. Hopefully this was the last instance where the staff felt it necessary to manage his workload. We’re gonna need the guy with the five-year, $130M contract to be able to carry us for a lot of this upcoming stretch.

More Brayan Bello magic followed Moran’s poor outing. Whatever the mental hurdle is for that guy no longer matters. He’s an excellent asset as a long relief arm for the rest of the summer and into the playoffs. We have to hope that the organization feels the same way, we all saw that starting is not in the cards for him this year. Keep him in the pen and ride the hot hand.

Payton Tolle was good in the second game, but nine hits is not something you want to see on his final line. His ERA this season is still an excellent 3.30, but he’s gonna have to lock in if he doesn’t want these types of games to bite him in the ass when it matters most. Since the All-Star Break, he is 1-0 with a 4.24 ERA in three starts and has given up 22 hits and has struck out 23 batters. Ruh roh…

The Slaten/Guerrero/Chapman sequence out of the pen was awesome. I can’t believe we have this good of a bullpen. The only one who really scares me these days is Chappy! He’s kinda turning into 2018 Kimbrel where everything is a bit of a production before the job gets done. If he could return to last year’s form? Golly!

Over his last three starts, Jake Bennett has a 4.58 ERA in 17.2IP. His FIP is 3.89 and his xERA is 3.14 in that span, so it may be a case of some bad luck, but it’s definitely something to keep an eye on. If the wheels start falling off of the rotation, we’re going to be in deep shit and fast.

A pro-Masa nugget courtesy of Rob Braford: the Sox are 18-2 in Masa’s last 20 starts. Not bad!

Per bostonsportsinf, since June 25th, the Sox are 13-0 against opponents with a record better than .500, 14-1 on the road, and 12-2 in games decided by two runs. The team is rising to the occasion in every imaginable aspect.

Sarah Langs posted a great stat, saying that “The Red Sox are the first team in MLB history to enter a calendar month 10+ games under .500 and leave said month 7+ games over .500. Only 2 previous teams had even entered 10+ under and exited TWO over: 2019 SF July & 1996 BOS Aug”.

Deadline Thoughts

The Red Sox finally made a splash at the deadline under Craig Breslow. I would think this secures his job through the winter and well into next year. It shows he has the ability to go all-in and isn’t going to toil around with prospects if he thinks this team can actually make a run to the World Series.

Drafted #1 overall in 2019, Adley has made three All-Star Games (‘23, ‘24, ‘26), won a Silver Slugger (‘23) and has received MVP votes in two seasons (‘22, ‘23). He’s been injured since mid-July and is hoping to get back to action late next week. His injury history has definitely hampered his ability to remain consistent over the years, so if we can get him healthy and back to form, he should be an excellent fit on this team.

He’s got the type of ceiling that you dream of for a guy behind the dish where he has an ability to hit while also being elite defensively. His pairing with Wong should work well once he returns from the IL.

Adley is in arbitration next year and will be a free agent in 2028. He received $7.25M this year and should get about $10M next year. If the Sox can work out a deal to keep him around for four(ish) more years, this is a slam dunk.

I’m not gonna sit here and wax poetic like I know how to scout MLB talent. I don’t and you don’t either. We read what we’re told and we form opinions based on stuff we read on Sox Prospects and MLB Pipeline. We can’t get hung up on dealing guys who may never pan out in the big leagues. When there’s a guy in front of us who has the pedigree to help this baseball team right now, you take that deal. Is it an overpay? Maybe. Were any of those guys going to impact the 2026 Boston Red Sox? No. The only “untouchable” prospect is still un-touched. It’s going to be okay. As my brilliant cousin Dan once said, “Perhaps the lesson is we should trade our top prospects at the lower levels before they prove they suck and can’t fetch more than Steven Matz.”

A lot of people were bummed to see Narvaez included in the package. He’s been awful this year and has brought with him some off-the-field baggage. These types of incidents are things that front offices tend to remember for longer than we do (with the exception of Duran).

A little thought exercise for you! Which of these players would you rather have behind the dish going forward?
Player A: 56 starts / 3.92 runs allowed per game / 28-28 record / .500 win%
Player B: 43 starts / 3.40 runs allowed per game / 29-14 record / .674 Win%

Player A is Narvaez and Player B is Connor Wong. Sometimes, it’s that simple!

The other big news today surrounded our former first round pick Marcelo Mayer.

The Mayer era comes to an end in the weirdest way possible? I did not foresee him getting dealt for a reliever, but I can’t say I hate the move. The guy has been soft his entire career, has off-the-field questions about work ethic & partying, and just wasn’t good. He’ll finish his career with the Red Sox as a .220 hitter with seven homers and 32 RBIs in 114 games across two seasons, good for a 0.3 bWAR.

In return, we got a controllable lefty in the pen with a fire that should gel well with the rest of the psychos in the pen. Miller just turned 26 and has posted a 2.76 ERA with the Giants this year. He’s in arbitration through the 2029 season.

His Savant page is super bloody so it should not be a surprise that Craig was willing to give up a former first rounder to get the deal done.

Miller throws his sinker 45% of the time and pumps it in at an average of 96.9 MPH, three ticks higher than the average lefty. His second-most used pitch is his slider which he unleashes at a 41% clip. It’ll be interesting to see if Bailey tinkers with the usage at all once he gets into our system.

RIP the Marcelo Mayer Carshield commercial. Not sure I’ve ever seen a worse commercial in my life and I’d be lying to you if I said I wasn’t gonna miss it. You bum!

It’s still unclear why we traded RHP Tyler Uberstine for Braves OF Eli White, but we did! A lot of the chatter at the time seemed to point to a potential bigger deal in the works where Duran would be shipped, but nothing materialized. There is now an even bigger logjam in the outfield, as White is out of options.

With all the good that he did do at the deadline, Craig did not get starting pitching depth and that scares me. We are going to start testing our luck very soon with our young guys. I’m sitting here hoping that Tanner Houck (‘memba him?) can ramp up and return back to form. That’s not exactly where I want to be with a team making a run for the division.

Many wanted a right-handed bat at the deadline. They didn’t really move. The asking price from what was reported was insanely high. Neto, Lopez, and Goodman all stayed put. It’s obvious that Curtis Mead’s tenure in Boston now has a massive hurdle to overcome in order for that trade to work out in the eyes of the fans (lest he be Vaughn Grissom), but Craig correctly read the market. He got pieces that were actually for sale and didn’t fall for the clickbait headlines only to come home empty handed like he did last year. The guy may be learning a thing or two.

Really blows that the Dodgers got Skubal. I don’t know how this will impact the CBA negotiations this winter, but I can’t imagine this was a good thing for the prospect of playing baseball in 2027.

Final note: don’t ever send me tweets from this Baseball Trade Values account. Whatever their algorithm is to calculate who wins and who loses fucking sucks. People take it as gospel and it’s almost never correct. Shall we take a trip down memory lane to see how they graded trades from this offseason?

Garbage. Get that shit out of here.

What’s Ahead

The Sox will head back to Fenway for three games against the White Sox (59-52) and three games against the A’s (45-67).

I have secured the August standing room only pass and will be attending as many games as I can this month. Seeing as the drawing for these tickets happened a few weeks ago, I could not be more excited that the Sox continued to dominate in the fashion that they have. It’s insane that I have a ticket for the next 13 home games for a total cost of $99. What a life.

There are no starters listed for the Red Sox on MLB.com right now. For the White Sox, RHP Davis Martin (9-5, 3.62 ERA) will get the ball in game one, RHP Sean Burke (7-5, 3.04 ERA) will get it in game two, and RHP Luis Castillo (3-9, 5.06 ERA) will close out the series on the bump.

The Sox are hitting .238/.307/.379/.686 against right-handed pitching this year. The sooner we can knock out these starters, the better.

The White Sox are 5-5 in their last 10 games, but just took three out of four from the Rays. They’re no joke this year.

They recently acquired Luis Castillo from the Mariners and Joey Bart from the Braves. Neither of those moves really scare me, so I’m hoping to pick up where we left off the last time we saw them.

A series win is what matters, a sweep means we’re all-in.

2026 Record by Series Game:
Game 1: 20-16
Game 2: 21-14*
Game 3: 16-20*
Game 4: 3-1
*game two of the rained-out Yankees series still to be played August 29th.

Chad Tracy: 50-34 record (.595 win%)
7 for 15 in challenges (46.7%)
1 ejection
76 attempted steals of second (24% more than league average)
11 attempted steals of third (35% more than league average)
23 sac bunt attempts (87% more than league average)

FanGraphs Playoff Odds: 85.4%
Series 19: 26.3%
Series 20: 23.1%
Series 21: 21.3%
Series 22: 12.2%
Series 23: 16.1%
Series 24: 9.7%
Series 25: 10.8%
Series 27: 18%
Series 30: 30.4%
Series 31: 39.9%
All-Star Break: 40.1%
Series 32: 58.3%
Series 33: 61.0%
Series 35: 68.1%

2026 Season Confidence: B

World Series Odds: +1400 (down from +2000 last recap, fifth best in MLB)

Sox-Related Bets: Red Sox Over 87.5 wins +100 6U, Red Sox win American League +700 1U, Red Sox to win AL East +325 1U, Garrett Crochet Cy Young +450 10U, Roman Anthony MVP +2200 1U, Roman Anthony MVP +2000 5U, Roman Anthony MVP +1700 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1400 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1800 5U, Roman Anthony to win AL MVP & Garrett Crochet to win AL Cy Young +7500 1U, Boston Red Sox Longest Reg Season Win Streak – Over 7.5 Wins +100 1U, Roman Anthony Over 65½ RBIs -115 2U
Note: I crossed a lot of these out when the going was bad…now? Who knows! But I won’t be uncrossing them. I don’t need to jinx anything.

Blind Trust List: Wally the Green Monster, Willson Contreras, Aroldis Chapman, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, Jake Bennett, Caleb Durbin????

The Patriots are only seven practices into training camp, but the roster picture is already beginning to take shape.

Some jobs have essentially been decided. Drake Maye enters his third season coming off an MVP-caliber campaign and a Super Bowl appearance, while Hunter Henry, Robert Spillane, Christian Gonzalez and Marcus Jones all have established roles. The starting offensive line also appears largely set when healthy.

The real questions are further down the depth chart.

Who wins the RB3 job? Does Kayshon Boutte remain in New England, or does a trade create another opening at wide receiver? Has Karon Prunty done enough to force his way onto the roster? Can Tanner Arkin and Khalil Jacobs continue building their cases? Those are the decisions that will shape the Patriots’ initial 53-man roster.

This projection is based on what I’ve observed through the first seven training camp practices, along with current depth-chart usage and player performance. There is still nearly a month until the Aug. 30 roster deadline and three preseason games remaining, so this is a snapshot of where I think the roster stands today, not a prediction of exactly how it will look at the end of the month.

Let’s get into my first projection of training camp.

Offense

Quarterbacks (2)

• Keeping: Drake Maye, Tommy DeVito

• Cutting: Behren Morton

There is no drama at the top of the quarterback room.

Drake Maye is coming off an MVP-caliber season and a Super Bowl appearance, and he enters camp as the unquestioned starter and a top-10 quarterback in the league. His focus now is continuing to build rapport with A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs, two of New England’s major offseason additions.

The real competition is behind him.

Tommy DeVito currently projects as the backup, although his position is not completely secure. He signed a two-year extension, which gives him an advantage over rookie Behren Morton. The cap consequences of cutting DeVito would be relatively small, but the real-cash commitment matters more. DeVito’s deal includes $2 million guaranteed, with $2.3 million in cash scheduled for 2026. Cutting him would also leave roughly $1.8 million in dead money, so the Patriots have a real financial incentive to keep him even though the cap hit is manageable.

That does not make DeVito untouchable.

If Morton clearly outplays him through the rest of camp and the preseason, the Patriots can absorb the cost. But Morton probably needs to win the competition clearly rather than finish in a tie.

For now, DeVito’s experience and contract give him the edge despite throwing an interception to Karon Prunty during Practice No. 7. Morton misses my initial 53-man projection, but he would be a strong practice-squad candidate if he clears waivers.

Running Backs (3)

• Keeping: Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, Jam Miller

• Cutting: Lan Larison, Myles Montgomery

Read more

The Boston Red Sox (57-51) beat the travelin’ A’s three games to one this week. While no one really likes a West Coast trip, the boys got us off on the right foot!

General Thoughts

It’s a great time to be a fan of the Red Sox! My fears about the streak potentially being the pinnacle of the summer seem to have been quelled by a continuation of dominance. The team is playing the way Breslow told us they would play. As much as it pains me to admit, our PBO may actually know ball.

Over the last 30 games, the team has a 25-5 record. The only teams in franchise history that have gone on this kind of run? 2004 and 2018 (h/t). No one in the universe was putting the 2026 team in conversations with World Championship-winning teams of days past before late June. The turnaround is remarkable. The fact that we may be able to forget how poorly this season started is nothing short of a miracle.

What’s really been nice to see is the team gelling! Everyone seems to be best friends and there are certainly no cancers in the clubhouse. What’s that? I’m not reading the script correctly and there’s actually a massive asshole that continues to play every day even though he’s the worst qualified hitter in Red Sox history? Hmph. My fault.

How Jarren Duran still gets consistent at bats on this team is baffling. Forget what you know I’m gonna talk about for a second. He has the lowest batting average in all of baseball (.195), the second lowest wRC+ (58) and has hit .228/.274/.428 with runners on base this season. Those things alone should be enough evidence to stop putting him in the lineup every night. Right now, he’s bad at baseball. All the other stuff is just icing on the cake for the haters.

The whole saga is so tiring at this point, I don’t want to waste my time talking about it (but I will). Everyone accused Craig of not having a feel for the team when he was giving his robotic radio hits and press conferences earlier this year. To me, the biggest indicator for whether or not he deserves the job long-term is if he gets rid of Duran at the deadline. If he goes another year without being able to sell our most negatively-impactful asset to some sucker, it’s a loss.

For whatever reason, I actually watched the postgame last night even though it was almost one in the morning. Seeing Duran speak so condescendingly to the media is legitimately uncomfortable. The man cannot deal with having a microphone in front of his face when he has erred. He consistently crumbles under the massive weight of having to share his own thoughts. There is no saving his image in Boston, which is insane given the deep connection he made to so many by sharing his mental health struggles. That was a genuinely inspiring thing for a pro athlete to do and to piss it all away because he cannot stop acting like a baby is baffling. He has been given the longest leash in Red Sox history and it’s past due for the organization to cut ties all together.

As much as Duran deserves the negative attention, Willson Contreras deserves credit for the way he handled the situation.

Sticking up for his teammate even after said teammate actively tried to make you and the coaching staff look bad. Giving him praise when the guy’s been down horrendous. These are the things you look towards a leader to do. He’s a certified Guy and I want him to spend the rest of his career in Boston. Shoutout to Craig for trading for Contreras, he’s been the lifeblood of this team all season long.

As we march towards the trade deadline, I felt it important to call out where the Sox stand against other teams in the AL.

• Record against WC-hopeful teams:

  • Yankees → 5-4, 3 games remaining (8/28-8/30)

  • Guardians → 2-1, 3 games remaining (9/22-9/24)

  • Mariners → 2-1, 3 games remaining (8/31-9/2)

  • Twins → 1-5, 0 games remaining

  • Orioles → 5-4, 4 games remaining (9/3-9/6)

  • Tigers → 5-2, 0 games remaining

  • Blue Jays → 3-6, 4 games remaining (8/10-8/13)

  • A’s → 3-1, 3 games remaining (7/27-7/30, 8/7-8/9)

  • Royals → 3-0, 3 games remaining (9/11-9/13)

  • Angels → 3-0, 3 games remaining (9/7-9/9)

• Against division leaders:

  • Rays → 5-5, 3 games remaining (9/18-9/20)

  • White Sox → 3-0, 3 games remaining (8/4-8/6)

  • Rangers → 2-1, 3 games remaining (9/15-9/17)

Given how everything started this year, we’re in a phenomenal spot. We just have to hope that the Twins stay put outside of that final Wild Card spot and Blue Jays continue to troll around in the basement of the AL East. Shocking to find out that we have a winning record against every other team in the American League. I guess that’s why you can’t give up on a season in June. Mental note for the rest of my life.

A final general note: I miss Dave O’Brien. Sorry if this offends.

Sox Notes

All three games were decided by clutch home runs! I have no idea why the team couldn’t hit to save their life in the first four or five innings of each game (might have been sun-related according to Lou), but it ultimately didn’t matter because some of these guys really have the clutch gene.

It should surprise no one that Ceddanne was the first one to do it. A grand Slam in the 6th inning of game two secured the win–at the same time planting seeds in my head that we actually may be watching a future MVP. Pap was railroaded when he suggested the very same thing last year, but I think that take may have more legs than any of us were willing to acknowledge at the time. On the year, Ceddy is hitting .282/.322/.446/.769 with 11 homers, 52 RBI, and 14 stolen bases. He’s on pace to have his best offensive season while maintaining a ridiculous glove. That 8-year, $50M contract is starting to look like one of the biggest steals in recent history. He’s locked up through 2032!

Andruw Monasterio came up big in extras in game three, launching a two-run homer in the tenth that would eventually prove to be the decider. Not sure what was up with the NESN cameras this series but they were zoomed out and only made his homer look like a nuclear missile. Had to have felt good for him after making the error a few innings earlier. While he can’t play shortstop to save his life, he can hit. That’s the type of guy we need right now. The conversation about what to do with Story is more interesting if Monasterio is still swinging the bat like he is.

Of course, Willson Contreras was the savior in last night’s game. Digging in after Wilyer’s game-tying homer, you just knew that he was going to do something special. There’s something magical about him. He owns the big moments and has a 210 wRC+ in the month of July. Elite.

Justin Slaten is pitching out of his mind right now. Since June 25th, Slaten has appeared in 12 games and has posted a 1-0 record with a 1.69 ERA, punching out 15 batters in 10.2IP. I was always hesitant to hitch my wagon to the Slaten train, but I have no issue doing so now. So long as he can stay healthy, he is a very important piece to this team’s success down the line.

The bullpen as a whole has been phenomenal, too. Bullpens are weird because you only really remember them when they suck. It’s so nice that night after night we can cruise from our starter to our closer with ease. Sure, there are hiccups here and there, but that’s baseball, baby!

Since June 25th, Masataka Yoshida is hitting .303/.370/.500/.870 with three bombs, nine RBIs, and four doubles. Getting an .870 OPS from Masa has been massive. While he grounds out to the second baseman so fucking much, he also is good. This is something that people are going to have to learn to deal with (even though I thought he was gonna be DFA’d this year). Shoutout to Masa. Glad he’s out of the shadow realm.

Sucks that Curtis Mead broke his wrist. To take a step back, I really didn’t have any strong opinions on the Connelly Early trade. My initial thought was I was fine with it, so long as Mead continued to show promise of being an above-average bat in the majors. If he were to replicate what he’d done this year for the next three or four years, it would be a win no matter how Early turned out with the Nats. It was mean for the baseball gods to do what they did in his second Sox plate appearance because now I’m having visions of Vaughn Grissom. Whatever, you can’t foresee these things, so the trade grade is paused for now.

Also, hate to ring the “I told you so” bell, but it’s worth reiterating that Craig only deals with like five teams. The Nats are very much one of them, so while everyone is looking outside of that handful, I implore you to look within it. Whomever we deal for at the deadline is going to come from the Nats, Pirates, Cardinals, Brewers, or Pirates. Don’t fool yourself into thinking any differently.

Roman Anthony is swinging a bat. I REPEAT: ROMAN ANTHONY IS SWINGING A BAT! I know, overreaction probably, but I want to be excited about our 23-year-old potential superstar getting healthy. Sue me. If he’s swinging a bat, that means he’s pain-free (or so they said), and that is a great thing for our team. I hope it impacts Craig’s decision making at the deadline. Maybe this allows him to finally let go of Duran.

What’s Ahead

The Sox will travel to Los Angeles to take on the Dodgers (69-40) in a three-game set. The big, bad Dodgers get to take on a scrappy Red Sox team that wants nothing more than to blow their doors off. What a wonderful world it would be to sweep these cheating fucks and really put ourselves into an interesting situation.

The modern-era Sox record for most series wins in a row is eight (2013, 1995). Would be pretty cool to do. Both of those teams finished first in the AL East, so ya never know what could happen!

At the risk of missing the big trade before the weekend is over, I’ll just say that whatever happens, we need an arm. The bats have shown that they can run into four runs a game, but our pitching is going to be a problem in a few weeks. I don’t want to go into October with three or four guys who have pitched more this year than they ever have in their entire lives. We need reinforcements so we don’t crumble.

2026 Record by Series Game:
Game 1: 19-16
Game 2: 20-14*
Game 3: 15-20*
Game 4: 3-1
*game two of the rained-out Yankees series still to be played August 29th.

Chad Tracy: 47-34 record
6 for 14 in challenges (42.9%)
1 ejection
75 attempted steals of second (26% more than league average)
11 attempted steals of third (38% more than league average)
22 sac bunt attempts (87% more than league average)

FanGraphs Playoff Odds: 68.1%
Series 19: 26.3%
Series 20: 23.1%
Series 21: 21.3%
Series 22: 12.2%
Series 23: 16.1%
Series 24: 9.7%
Series 25: 10.8%
Series 27: 18%
Series 30: 30.4%
Series 31: 39.9%
All-Star Break: 40.1%
Series 32: 58.3%
Series 33: 61.0%

2026 Season Confidence: B-

World Series Odds: +2000 (down from +2200 last recap)

Sox-Related Bets: Red Sox Over 87.5 wins +100 6U, Red Sox win American League +700 1U, Red Sox to win AL East +325 1U, Garrett Crochet Cy Young +450 10U, Roman Anthony MVP +2200 1U, Roman Anthony MVP +2000 5U, Roman Anthony MVP +1700 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1400 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1800 5U, Roman Anthony to win AL MVP & Garrett Crochet to win AL Cy Young +7500 1U, Boston Red Sox Longest Reg Season Win Streak – Over 7.5 Wins +100 1U, Roman Anthony Over 65½ RBIs -115 2U

Blind Trust List: Wally the Green Monster, Willson Contreras, Aroldis Chapman, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, Jake Bennett, Caleb Durbin????

Now that Training Camp has officially begun, the New England Patriots, and their fans, are off and running towards achieving a very difficult objective – returning to the Super Bowl, and this time, winning the big game.

The sun is shining, fans have returned in droves, footballs and autographs are flying, and all seems well once again at Gillette Stadium. Exciting times!

But is it really all “sunshine and rainbows” for our hometown team?

In my previous part 1 of this 5 part “glass half empty” series, Captain Obvious (me) began looking at things that just CANNOT happen for the Patriots to make the difficult return trip to the Super Bowl, with CANNOT #1: Drake Maye CANNOT get hurt.

Now that training camp has started, this one becomes a present challenge and reality.

In today’s CANNOT #2, I continue the series by taking a player by player look at a few key returning players on both sides of the ball who amped up their games last year and were key contributors to helping the Patriots make it to Super Bowl.

You can call this one, CANNOT #2: Key returning players CANNOT underachieve.

These are players who in my opinion CANNOT underachieve; but who unfortunately JUST MIGHT.

Today - let’s get into by looking at player #1.

#1-RB1 Rhamondre Stevenson:

Put simply: Mondre CANNOT get “fumbleitis” again and start putting the ball on the ground.

Foxboro, MA – New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson fumbles the ball during the first quarter of the game at Gillette Stadium. (Nancy Lane/Boston Herald)

For those of you who have been following Stevenson since he joined the Patriots in 2021, like me you have undoubtedly seen both his potential for running back greatness, and his unfortunate tendency to thwart that greatness by fumbling the ball.

It’s at times almost a Jekyll and Hyde scenario with Stevenson.

In his 5 full years in the NFL, all with the Patriots, Mondre has fumbled the ball 17 times, and has lost 9 of them. His rate of one fumble every 30–34 touches since 2024 makes him the most fumble-prone running back in the league over the last two years. <footnote 1>

OUCH.

After a slow and fumbling start to last year (two in Week 3 and one in Week 5 – which made 10 over a 20-game stretch) some fans were actually calling for Mondre to be benched. New Head Coach Mike Vrabel took a chance and stuck with him, and Mondre rewarded him (and us) by becoming a nearly unstoppable force – arguably the best running back in the AFC after the midway point of the season. Recovering from a toe injury that caused him to miss 3 games, Mondre played in 6 more games, rushed 47 times for 324 yards (an impressive 6.9 yards per carry), and scored 4 touchdowns. He also had 16 receptions for 176 yards and 2 touchdowns. <footnote 2> Best of all - ZERO fumbles during this span!

I especially enjoyed seeing Mondre use his super power to run through and over people and give more than a few flailing defenders the Rob Gronkowski stiff arm throw down treatment!

Image

Patriots faithful - if we are to return to the big game this year, we CANNOT have anything less than this Mondre, ALL YEAR LONG.

But which Mondre will show up in 2026?

Concerned? Not concerned? Drop your comments below.

Next time, we’ll have a look at Mondre’s counterpart in backfield crime. Let’s just say things might not exactly be what they seem with promising RB#2.

Continue to enjoy the lead up to the season!

Footnotes/Statistical references:

<footnote 1> - https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/rhamondre-steveson-fumbles-career

<footnote 2> - https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/StevRh00.htm

There is always plenty of excitement surrounding the opening days of training camp, but after attending Day 1 in Foxborough and following Day 2 closely, one thing became clear: this Patriots team has a noticeably different energy. This team does not look like they are coming off a Super Bowl loss. The crowd can sense it, and there is a buzz around this team right now.

From Christian Gonzalez’s interaction with the fans to a defensive line that consistently lived in the backfield, there were plenty of storylines worth watching as training camp continued.

Christian Gonzalez Doesn’t Look Like a Player Concerned About Contract Talks

If anyone was wondering whether Christian Gonzalez’s contract negotiations would create a distraction, Day 1 quickly erased those concerns.

Gonzalez sprinted onto the practice field, made his way around the sidelines pumping up the crowd and looked every bit like someone fully invested in football. He participated in every portion of practice without limitations.

Even better, the Patriots wasted no time giving fans the matchup everyone wanted to see.

On the very first 11-on-11 snap, Gonzalez lined up across from newly acquired star receiver A.J. Brown.

Naturally, Drake Maye tested it immediately.

Maye threw a back-shoulder jump ball toward Brown, who created enough separation to get a hand on it, but the pass ultimately fell incomplete. Even on an incompletion, it was the type of competitive rep fans came to see.

Earlier that morning, Patriots owner Robert Kraft also addressed Gonzalez’s contract situation.

“We love Christian Gonzalez. We love him as a player, as a person... we’ve made an offer to make him the highest-paid player to ever play that position in the NFL.”

Based on Kraft’s comments and Gonzalez’s demeanor throughout practice, there is little reason to believe this situation becomes contentious. Everything still points toward an extension getting done sooner rather than later.

Stevenson and Henderson Already Look Like a 1A/1B Backfield

Rhamondre Stevenson took the first carry of practice, but TreVeyon Henderson received extensive work with the first-team offense as well. The two spent much of practice together, working through footwork drills, pass protection, and individual periods alongside one another.

It certainly feels less like a traditional starter-backup relationship and much more like a true 1A/1B tandem.

Behind them, however, the competition is wide open.

Jam Miller and Lan Larison split reps with the second and third units, and there appears to be a significant gap between the top two backs and everyone else competing for the final roster spots.

Even without pads, Jam Miller stood out. His burst through the line, pad level, and decisiveness were encouraging. Ultimately, though, the battle for the third running back job may come down to one thing: pass protection.

Drake Maye Continues to Spread the Football Around

Drake Maye’s first practice showed exactly what many hoped to see.

He completed six of his nine team period passes while distributing the football across multiple targets.

One of his best throws came over the middle to Hunter Henry, where Maye looked off the defenders before firing a strike between two defenders.

He also connected on two excellent deep throws, one to Demario Douglas and another to Kayshon Boutte.

Boutte’s diving reception was arguably the highlight of the day, drawing one of the loudest reactions from both teammates and the fans.

Day 2 wasn’t quite as sharp for Maye, but that’s hardly surprising considering the defense continues to create problems.

Iron sharpens iron.

If this defense is as talented as it appears, challenging Maye every single day could become one of the biggest reasons for his continued development.

The Defensive Line Controlled Practice

If there was one position group that consistently stood out throughout Day 1, it was the defensive front.

Yes, the players were in shells with minimal contact, but the disruption was obvious.

The defensive line consistently penetrated the backfield on running plays and made life difficult throughout team drills.

While the defense ended practice doing push-ups after allowing a few explosive passing plays, the front seven established itself as one of the early winners of camp.

One player who particularly caught my attention was Dre’Mont Jones.

He looked explosive off the edge, with impressive size and athleticism. If Saturday was any indication, Jones could become a major contributor in this pass rush rotation.

I’ll also continue watching Bradyn Swinson, Elijah Ponder, and Cory Durden as camp progresses and their opportunities expand.

One smaller detail that immediately stood out involved Swinson leading stretches alongside the team’s captains before practice.

It may seem insignificant, but it’s the type of leadership opportunity coaches don’t hand out accidentally. It’s something worth monitoring as camp continues.

A Few Smaller Storylines Worth Watching

The Backup Quarterback Competition Isn’t Over

Tommy DeVito struggled on Day 1.

His timing appeared off, several throws fluttered downfield, and he missed multiple opportunities along the sidelines.

Day 2 was reportedly better, but undrafted rookie Behren Morton continued making the most of his opportunities as well.

The QB2 competition remains far from decided.

DeAndre Hopkins Is Already Coaching

Although DeAndre Hopkins is no longer playing, his impact was noticeable.

Throughout practice he worked closely with the receivers both individually and as a group, offering instruction between reps.

For younger receivers and particularly players with similar skill sets like Romeo Doubs, having Hopkins around every day could become an underrated asset throughout camp.

Tanner Arkin Could Have a Role

With tight end depth relatively thin, Tanner Arkin remains an intriguing player.

Before team drills began, he spent time working with Julian Ashby on long-snapping responsibilities, adding another layer of versatility to his game.

He’s built like a bowling ball, not necessarily the smoothest route runner, but someone who could carve out a role as a physical blocker and special teams contributor.

Caleb Lomu Continues to Develop

Rookie tackle Caleb Lomu handled every right tackle snap with the second unit during Day 1.

My favorite moment came after practice ended. Veteran Morgan Moses stayed behind to work with Lomu individually.

Seeing one of the league’s respected veterans investing extra time in a young offensive lineman speaks volumes about the culture Mike Vrabel is trying to build.

Day 2 Quick Hits

Although I wasn’t in attendance Sunday, several developments stood out.

• Reggie Gilliam was absent, and Morgan Moses was in attendance but not participating after being full participants on Day 1. Given their Saturday workload, one can only predict this could be a load-management day. The Gilliam absence is worth keeping an eye on

• Tanner Arkin filled in at fullback while Caleb Lomu continued receiving additional work at right tackle.

• Craig Woodson recorded an interception on a tipped Drake Maye pass. Woodson has been my breakout player heading into the season, and early signs continue to reinforce my belief that he’ll have a significant role in this defense.

• Gabe Jacas officially signed with the Patriots and will report to training camp. He’ll begin on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, but Mike Vrabel indicated he can be activated whenever he’s medically ready.

For more on Day two check out Peter Collins article as he had boots on the ground for both Day 1 and Day 2

Boston Sports Zone

Patriots Training Camp Day 2

By: Peter Collins - Follow on X @Pete_Collins…

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a month ago · 1 like · Boston Sports Zone

Final Thoughts

It’s only two days into training camp, and there is still a long way to go before meaningful football begins.

But the early themes are beginning to emerge.

Christian Gonzalez looks fully engaged despite ongoing contract negotiations. Drake Maye continues to flash the traits of a franchise quarterback. The running back room has the makings of a dangerous one-two punch. Most importantly, this defensive front already looks capable of making life miserable for opposing offenses.

If these first two days are any indication, Patriots fans have plenty of reasons to be excited as camp rolls on.

GO PATS!

The Patriots returned to the practice fields Sunday for Day 2 of training camp, and so did I. The defense once again won the day, controlling the competitive portions of practice while the offense continued building on Josh McDaniels’ outside-zone running game.

That’s not entirely unexpected. Defenses are typically ahead of offenses early in training camp as timing, communication and execution continue to develop. But through two practices, it’s becoming clear this Patriots defense is simply very good.

Drake Maye wasn’t quite as sharp as he was on Saturday, but it felt more like a young quarterback shaking off the normal rust of training camp than anything else. The defensive front continued disrupting plays, the secondary made life difficult on receivers, and several defenders continued stacking impressive practices.

Reggie Gilliam was absent from Sunday’s practice, while wide receiver Jeremiah Webb was placed on injured reserve. Recently signed rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas was present on the lower rehab field but did not participate. Head coach Mike Vrabel said the team is taking a cautious approach with Jacas.

We also got another look at the offensive line rotations, the kick return competition and several position battles that are already beginning to take shape.

General Notes

Unofficial 11-on-11 Passing Stats

Read more

Football is back, and it feels so good.

The Patriots opened training camp Saturday with a 90-minute, unpadded practice behind Gillette Stadium, and while there was only so much to learn without pads, Day 1 still gave us our first real look at the roster, the early depth chart and some position battles that could define the back end of this team.

Mike Vrabel kept the pace high as the offense installed outside-zone concepts, Drake Maye showed flashes, and the defensive line spent much of the morning living in the backfield.

We also got our first look at A.J. Brown matched up against with Christian Gonzalez, watched DeAndre Hopkins spend the day working with the wide receivers and saw several young players begin making their cases for roster spots.

There was a lot to like, some questions to answer and several storylines that are already worth following.

Christian Gonzalez practices after Kraft reveals massive contract offer

Before practice, Robert Kraft revealed the Patriots have offered Christian Gonzalez a contract that would make him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history and the highest-paid player in franchise history.

“We love Christian Gonzalez. We love him as a player, as a person. That’s why we’ve made an offer to him that makes him the highest-paid player ever to play that position in the NFL. And coincidentally, it’s the highest contract in the Patriots franchise history.”

Kraft did not reveal the financial details, but based on his comments, the offer would surpass Milton Williams’ four-year, $104 million deal, currently the richest contract in Patriots history.

Another encouraging sign came once practice started.

After limiting his work during mandatory minicamp, Gonzalez participated throughout Saturday’s practice.

Gabe Jacas signs as Landry’s status remains uncertain

The Patriots also reached an agreement with second-round pick Gabe Jacas on his four-year rookie contract.

New England traded up to draft the former Illinois All-American with the 55th overall pick, and his signing comes at an important time with Harold Landry opening camp on the active PUP list.

When asked whether Landry could be ready for Week 1, Vrabel declined to make any predictions. Both Landry and Jacas underwent offseason procedures, so their workloads will be worth monitoring when they return to the field. For Jacas, the other question is where he fits into the early edge rotation.

D-Hop looks at home with the coaching staff

One of the more interesting sights Saturday wasn’t a player at all.

Former All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins spent practice with the Patriots’ wide receivers, coaching them between drills, talking through releases and staying involved throughout the session.

Hopkins is exploring coaching and personnel work after his playing career, and it was obvious he wasn’t just making an appearance. He looked like another member of the coaching staff.

Unofficial 11-on-11 Passing Stats

Drake Maye: 6-of-9 (plus one completion erased by penalty)

Tommy DeVito: 3-of-6

Behren Morton: 4-of-4

OL Formations - Day 1

First Team: LT Campbell — LG AVT — C Wilson — RG Onwenu — RT Moses

Second Team: LT Bryant — LG Rupcich — C Brown — RG Wallace — RT Lomu

Third Team: LT Hudson — LG Gutierrez — C Rizy — RG Morgan — RT Crownover

Who looked good

The wide receiver room is beginning to sort itself out

Wide receiver was the position group I was most interested in entering camp, and after one practice, the early hierarchy already looks fairly clear.

A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins and DeMario “Pop” Douglas separated themselves from the rest of the room. They consistently worked together and looked like the Patriots’ top five receivers, accounting for most of the offense’s biggest plays.

Boutte delivered the highlight of practice with a fully extended diving catch during team work.

Douglas, meanwhile, looked exactly like we’ve come to expect every August. He was the only receiver to produce multiple chunk plays, created yards after the catch and consistently found open space underneath. He worked primarily from the slot, as expected. Every year Pop seems to put together strong training camp practices, and Saturday was no exception.

Kyle Williams appeared to be the sixth receiver based on the Day 1 rotations and was relatively quiet. That’s not necessarily a criticism, but while the five receivers ahead of him were making plays, Williams largely blended into the background.

That leaves Efton Chism on the outside looking in, at least after one practice. Chism looked like the best option among the receivers competing behind the top six and could push Williams if he strings together a few good days. Chism also works on special teams, which could help his case.

Kyle Dixon certainly looks the part physically. The dude is huge. But after seeing him move in person, it is clear he has some development ahead of him before he is ready to contribute at the NFL level.

One practice doesn’t determine a depth chart, but the receiver room already appears to be taking shape.

Drake Maye

Maye was solid throughout team periods and showed encouraging chemistry with both his veteran and new targets.

The Patriots emphasized the outside-zone running game, but when Maye had opportunities to throw, he looked comfortable operating the offense and pushing the ball downfield. Saturday wasn’t spectacular, but it was exactly what you want from your franchise quarterback on Day 1.

Jam Miller

Jam Miller quietly put together a solid day despite the defensive front controlling much of practice.

Running almost exclusively with the third-team offense, Miller’s low center of gravity immediately stood out. He ran with good balance and made decisive cuts.

He still sits behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson and is competing with Lan Larison for the RB3 job, but the rookie looked like a player worth monitoring.

Speaking of the running backs, Stevenson remained first in line while Henderson also mixed in with the starters before spending some time with the second unit to get even reps. Those two spent much of practice side by side.

Eli Raridon

Raridon spent much of practice with the rookie group during special teams before circumstances gave him an opportunity.

Hunter Henry spent most of the positional work by himself before later appearing to come up limping after a long sideline route. Henry eventually returned, but Raridon received some first-team work in the meantime.

When his number was called, Raridon looked smooth.

Dre’Mont Jones and the defensive line

The defensive line won the day.

Without pads, it’s dangerous to overreact to trench play, but the Patriots’ front consistently disrupted plays before they had a chance to develop.

Jones batted down a pass, Christian Barmore flashed, Milton Williams made his presence felt and the group repeatedly blew up plays in the backfield.

Jones also looked different than I expected physically. I knew he was an edge defender, but I still pictured him carrying more weight from earlier in his career. Instead, he looked noticeably leaner in person.

If Saturday was any indication, this defensive front has a chance to be one of the strengths of the roster.

Who struggled

Tommy DeVito

It wasn’t a good day for DeVito.

He struggled during team drills, missed an easy completion in the flat and threw a deep ball after practice that fluttered badly. The offensive line did not always help him, but Behren Morton looked like the more comfortable and efficient quarterback Saturday.

Tanner Arkin

I came into camp higher on Tanner Arkin than I left.

Arkin spent most of practice working with the rookies on special teams, so he didn’t get many opportunities within the offense. After practice, however, he stayed behind to run routes, and that’s where my opinion started to shift.

Compared to the other tight ends and receivers on the field, Arkin didn’t appear to move with the same burst or fluidity. His speed and change of direction stood out more than anything, and at least on Day 1, he didn’t look like much of a receiving threat.

It’s far too early to draw any firm conclusions, especially after one unpadded practice, but my initial impression is that his clearest path to making the roster may be as a developmental blocking tight end rather than someone pushing Eli Raridon for the TE2 role. That evaluation can certainly change once the pads come on, but that was my takeaway after seeing him in person.

What I’m watching today

One practice doesn’t establish a depth chart, but two practices can start creating trends. Here are five things I’m watching today:

1. Can Gabe Jacas immediately work his way into the edge rotation after signing his rookie contract?

2. Does Kyle Williams respond after a quiet opening practice, or can Efton Chism begin closing the gap for the sixth receiver spot?

3. Can Behren Morton continue building momentum behind Drake Maye?

4. Who gets the kick return opportunities?

5. How much first-team work does Eli Raridon receive if Hunter Henry is limited?

If you’re at camp and see a guy in a “In Vrabel we Trust” T-shirt come say hi! If you want one yourself, you can purchase one here: https://etsy.me/4vWmBzv

Go Patriots. Starting Forever.

After months of roster projections, position-group debates and offseason speculation, the Patriots are back on the field. Now we get real rotations, actual competition and the first clues about how this roster may come together.

We also get A.J. Brown in a Patriots uniform, which still feels a little surreal.

It is only Day 1. One completed pass will not tell us much. Rep order, position usage and who the coaches trust with the starters might.

Still, there is plenty worth watching when the Patriots hold their first training camp practice on Saturday, July 25.

How involved is Christian Gonzalez?

Christian Gonzalez will be the first player I look for.

With the Seattle Seahawks reportedly discussing an extension with Devon Witherspoon worth close to $32 million per year, his final number could help set the market for Christian Gonzalez. Whatever Witherspoon ultimately signs for, my expectation is that Gonzalez’s deal will come in just above it.

Read more

The Boston Red Sox (52-49) miracle run came to an end after they were unable to sweep the Baltimore Orioles (50-53) in the second game of a double-header on Wednesday. With New England reenergized, the Sox are primed to deliver what once seemed improbable: a great summer.

General Thoughts

How fucking cool was that? The Sox ripped off 15 games in a row to propel themselves back into the playoff race. The narrative that this was the worst team in Red Sox history has promptly shed its summer coat. These guys look like they have the magic in them to make a run.

The Red Sox own the summer in Boston. Little distractions like the World Cup can come and go as they please. The Sox remain. An exciting baseball team can’t be topped in this city. You can feel it walking around. More people have team gear on, suddenly not afraid to admit their fandom to the world. More bars are showing the game. More people are interested in an outing at Fenway.

I don’t have to reiterate how annoying the beginning of the year was. You could have asked every single fan of the team if it were even remotely possible for these guys to string together ten wins in a row and no one would have said yes. Add five more on top of that, BAM! (Emril is hot in the streets right now, apparently.)

The booth is alive. OB and Will, OB and Lou, Will and Will, Will and Cooper. Eck even made an appearance yesterday! It doesn’t matter which combination you’re listening to right now, all of them are delivering. It’s a welcomed sound, as all of those combinations were in Hell about a month ago. No one needed this winning streak more than the guys who had to broadcast to the world how poorly this team was playing.

Now, for the hard part. While all of this is fine and dandy, and at the risk of having tomatoes thrown full-speed at my head, I’d ask you to take a breath. What was accomplished this past month was amazing. It genuinely made my days brighter. But, I would be lying if I said I had a ton of faith in this team to remain over .500.

A preface: to be a contrarian for the sake of being a contrarian is so fucking annoying. I promise I’m not doing that to you. I value you more than that. Unfortunately, I have serious concerns about the team if the trade deadline is not a rousing success.

Why do I say that? A few reasons. One, our rotation is not built to last. Two, we are still in need of another impact bat. Three, other teams are going to get hot.

To think the ground we gained in the last month is gonna last forever, especially if they slip up, is naive. This is baseball. Another team is probably going to make a run of nine or ten in a row at some point. We can’t just sit there and hope it isn’t one of the teams behind us.

Once they lost in game three, it felt like reality crashed back down on me. Being so soaked up in a magical run like the one we just witnessed pulled the wool over my eyes. This team still has some gaping issues that are going to need to be addressed if they want to make it to October.

OB put it nicely after game two yesterday when he thanked the Red Sox for giving us all our summer back.

He’s right about everything he said. We have to cherish this. Here’s to hoping that “summer” won’t be remembered just for that 15-game winning streak.

Sox Notes

The reliability of the arms is going to be a problem. It would be irresponsible to think that everything is going to remain the exact same for the rest of the season. Innings “limits” are on the horizon for key guys.

Jake Bennett has been excellent this season in his 98.2 innings. However, his career high was 117 innings in 2022. What happened the last time he set a career high in innings? The campaign following, he pitched in 15 games before requiring Tommy John surgery, causing him to miss all of 2024. That’s pretty fucking spooky.

Payton Tolle is at 104.2 innings. This is the second-most innings he’s thrown in a year, dating back to 2021 when he was an 18-year-old playing on some team called the 316 Sluggers. His career-high is 108 innings, which he accomplished last year. He’s going to set a new career high the next time he takes the mound. We’ve seen the Sox tread lightly with him before and I’d be hard-pressed to believe they’re not gonna be even more careful with him from this point forward. I doubt they just let him rip for as long as he wants, especially when you consider the fact that he’s never had a significant arm injury.

Did Connelly Early get injured at a great time? Perhaps! The youngster currently has 91.2 innings under his belt so far in 2026. In 2025, he tossed 100.1 innings, just barely under what he had thrown in 2024 (103.2IP). Just doing some quick, back of the napkin math, I’d say he has about three starts before he’s setting a new career high. Only half-kidding about the injury, I do hope he has used this time to get healthy and set for a second-half run.

Garrett Crochet recently checked in with the media to essentially cast doubt on his 2026 return. This was always my worst fear, yet no one seemed to actually acknowledge it until recently! I understand that the rotation has been doing excellent without him. However, the goal was not to live in a world completely devoid of our ace. The goal was always to add him back into a rotation that kept the team afloat while he got healthy. He was supposed to be the mid-season infusion.

We’re looking at a rotation that is going to be in completely uncharted territory in about two weeks. I genuinely have no idea what I would do if I were Craig. Do you let them run until they can’t run anymore, potentially risking a career-altering injury to a guy you were hoping to have in the rotation for years to come? How does the lockout factor into things? If you have concerns about potential injury, but know that 2027 won’t start until July at best, does that impact how much leash these guys are given? As well as the past month has gone, I sure wouldn’t want to be in his shoes right now.

My larger point is this: people are spending a disproportionate amount of time mock-trading which bats are gonna be sent to the Red Sox at the deadline. Start thinking about arms, too! This team has shown that they can string together wins with average offense. Lest we forget how the Red Sox spin getting guys back from injury. If Story, Anthony, and Mayer are going to be healthy at some point this season, couldn’t you see that being our deadline hitting acquisition? Securing another starter is a far more important item in my book.

Over the last 30 days, the team is 21-4. In that same span, they rank 17th in home runs (31), 15th in average (.248), 15th in OBP (.320), 11th in SLG (.432), 12th in OPS (.752), and fifth in RBIs (120). While the team appears to have turned the corner at the plate, their ceiling is still that of a league-average offense. Do I think that will win them a bunch of games if their staff can remain as dominant as they have been? Yes. Would it be stupid to leave this up to chance and not add another bat to help solidify the lineup going forward? Also yes.

Make no mistake about it: this is their ceiling offensively. We just saw the all-time run and they maxed out in the middle of the pack. That’s not gonna cut it in October. A bat needs to be inserted into this lineup that can provide some pop so Willson, Wilyer, and Principal Durbin don’t have to do it all every night.

It pains me to say this, but I had a Step Brothers “OK now it’s just kinda fucked up” moment with some of the gadget guys after they finally lost. Anthony Seigler looks lost out there. He’s making errors and no longer looks like a sure-handed second baseman. Tsung-Che Cheng is a great defender but his production at the plate is going in the wrong direction (hitting .154 in his last six games). Maybe Trevor Story does have a place in this lineup after all…

After cooling down to a .217 average on July 9th, Andruw Monasterio has gone nuclear in his last five games, hitting .571 with a homer, four doubles, and four RBIs. This stretch raised his season average to .247. I’m not sure what we do with him once everybody is back (I totally forgot about IKF in the last recap, have to factor him in), but he does enough to get the juices flowing. He’s off the shit list for now.

Aroldis Chapman tied Dennis Eckersley for ninth on the all-time saves list in the first game of the double-header. Cool moment, I guess. Call me when we’re in the top five. Who ever heard of celebrating ninth?

Something about Chappy makes me nervous these days. His control looks off compared to where he was earlier this year. He allowed seven free passes in his first 18.2 innings and is up to nine in his last 14. His ERA is still super solid (1.93) and he’s converted 23 of 25 save opportunities, but the eyes are saying something’s up.

Would I be super pissed to find out we traded Chapman at the deadline for an impact bat? The way that Slaten, Whitlock, and Guerrero are pitching these days leads me to say no. One may even say this would be a smart move. Trust tree: it boggles my mind how good he’s been on the Red Sox. I was ready for him to suck and, because he has a SUSPECT past, I was ready to hate him. Classic case of learning how to separate the art from the artist…

I want to absolve Eduardo Rivera of any wrong-doing. The guy was put in an impossible spot! I’m sure they didn’t think he was gonna get the ball in that game until sometime Tuesday because of the rain out and Ranger being ill. For him, getting the ball first when your team is trying to break the organization’s all-time winning streak is a lot of pressure for a 23-year-old in your fourth appearance in the majors. He throws gas and looks like he could positively contribute to this team for years. I’m not getting down on him.

Our old friend Brayan Bello got the call from the pen after Rivera melted down in the first inning of the finale. Bello remains one of the most confusing players I’ve ever seen. Of course, because he was coming out of the pen and did not start the game, he looked fantastic.

Sure would rock if he could figure out a way to be a starter again. With all the trouble brewing with the staff, unlocking a guy who has low-three ERA stuff again would be very helpful.

Durbin’s home run in the first game was electric. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times: I love Caleb Durbin. What started out as a bit because I felt bad for the guy has grown into an actual admiration for not only the baseball player but for the person as well. Not many of us could handle an entire city saying we sucked. I was there when the majority of Fenway was booing him during the second home series of the year. He was given no wiggle room, yet he has completely come into his own. MVP of the team (if the rotation and Willson didn’t exist).

OB masterclass. That clip is gonna be played a lot this year. Also, apparently Willson wants people to call Durbin “Mini Bowser”? Sign me up.

I know I shit on him a little bit a few paragraphs ago, but shout out to Cheng for making this catch. The ball had a .923 xBA. That ball gets through the infield ten times out of ten before this run. He’s an electric defender, helped to preserve that streak, and should be remembered fondly for it. It also probably helped prevent a Chapman meltdown.

What’s Ahead

The Sox will host the Toronto Blue Jays (47-56) in a three-game set at Fenway. Friday’s game will be on Apple TV, so get ready for all people over the age of 35 to complain about that.

The Blue Jays have woefully underperformed in relation to their expectations this year. They currently sit in the basement of the AL East just months after being two outs away from beating the Dodgers in the World Series. Many preseason predictions had the Blue Jays returning to the Fall Classic for a rematch against the Dodgers.

Vlad Jr. has been relatively Ass Cheeks, as well. Not sure what’s going on with him, but it’s only a matter of time before rumblings about his contract begin in Canada. Over his last 23 games, he’s hitting .193/.268/.307/.575 with two homers and ten RBIs. His full-season numbers are not much better. Note: I’d trade for Vlad in a heartbeat, even with that bad contract.

LHP Patrick Sandoval (0-0, 4.82 ERA) will get the ball against RHP Trey Yesavage (4-5, 3.78 ERA) in game one.

We’re gonna see RHP Dylan Cease (6-5, 2.67 ERA) on Saturday which sucks. The guy has been dealing this year and is right behind Cam Schlittler in Cy Young odds (+130). He’ll be up against RHP Sonny Gray (12-1, 2.48 ERA), who is making his own case for some down-ballot Cy Young votes.

Sunday will either be Ranger Suarez’s return or a Payton Tolle outing. It’s still listed as TBD on the Sox website. Whoever it is will toe the rubber against RHP Kevin Gausman (4-9, 4.51 ERA).

The Blue Jays will be throwing an all-righty rotation at the Sox this weekend. We are not particularly great against righties, which is weird given that our lineup feels so left-handed heavy. The Sox have hit to a .239/.306/.377/.683 clip with 66 homers (worst in MLB) and 267 RBIs (second worst) against righties this year. No bueno.

I hope I’m wrong about all the negativity. I love watching the Red Sox and want them to continue to play fun baseball games. This feels like a bit of a trap series. Fingers crossed.

2026 Record by Series Game:
Game 1: 17-16
Game 2: 20-12*
Game 3: 13-20*
Game 4: 2-1
*game two of the rained-out Yankees series still to be played August 29th.

Chad Tracy: 42-32 record
6 for 13 in challenges (46.2%)
1 ejection
69 attempted steals of second (28% more than league average)
9 attempted steals of third (27% more than league average)
17 sac bunt attempts (64% more than league average)

FanGraphs Playoff Odds: 61.0%
Series 19: 26.3%
Series 20: 23.1%
Series 21: 21.3%
Series 22: 12.2%
Series 23: 16.1%
Series 24: 9.7%
Series 25: 10.8%
Series 27: 18%
Series 30: 30.4%
Series 31: 39.9%
All-Star Break: 40.1%
Series 32: 58.3%

2026 Season Confidence: B-

World Series Odds: +2200 (down from +2700 last series)

Sox-Related Bets: Red Sox Over 87.5 wins +100 6U, Red Sox win American League +700 1U, Red Sox to win AL East +325 1U, Garrett Crochet Cy Young +450 10U, Roman Anthony MVP +2200 1U, Roman Anthony MVP +2000 5U, Roman Anthony MVP +1700 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1400 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1800 5U, Roman Anthony to win AL MVP & Garrett Crochet to win AL Cy Young +7500 1U, Boston Red Sox Longest Reg Season Win Streak – Over 7.5 Wins +100 1U, Roman Anthony Over 65½ RBIs -115 2U

Blind Trust List: Wally the Green Monster, Willson Contreras, Aroldis Chapman, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, Jake Bennett, Caleb Durbin????

The Boston Fleet’s third season came to a disappointing close in May when they lost Game 4 of the first round in the Walter Cup Playoffs to the Ottawa Charge. This marked the team’s second playoff appearance in the league’s last three years. Following the close of the playoffs, in which the Montréal Victoire took home the Walter Cup, the PWHL announced that it would be expanding to four cities: Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose.

This expansion triggered an expansion draft process, which consisted of five phases. Phase One was when the eight existing teams could protect three players. Phase Two was Expansion Recruitment, where the four expansion teams signed up to five “foundational” players through EFOs and FPOs. Phase 3 allowed every team to sign free agents. Existing teams could also protect three additional players. Phase 4 was the expansion teams’ roster fill to select the remaining unprotected players to reach their 10-player requirement. Phase 5 was when teams could issue qualifying offers to retain rights, and remaining players waited for the open signing period to open on June 19th.

Fleet’s Losses During Expansion

During Phase 1, the Fleet protected three players: defender Megan Keller (also their captain), goalie Aerin Frankel, and a somewhat surprising choice of defender Haley Winn. Many fans were expecting the Fleet to protect Swiss Olympian star Alina Müller. Müller was the Fleet’s first-ever draft pick in 2023, being drafted 3rd overall. The team took a risk, hoping that Müller would not receive or accept any qualifying offers.

This risk proved to be costly as Alina Müller signed a three-year contract with PWHL Hamilton, following former Boston Fleet Kris Sparre. This is proving to be a huge loss for the Fleet, as Müller is their all-time leading scorer, alternate captain, and scored 21 total points during the 2025-2026 season. Her absence will be difficult to make up for this upcoming season.

More hard-hitting losses for the Fleet came later in the expansion process. Forward and alternate captain Jamie Lee Rattray signed a two-year deal with Toronto Sceptres as a free agent. Rattray said while leaving Boston was difficult, she wanted to be closer to home in Toronto now that she and her wife have a young son. Rattray was drafted 15th overall by the Fleet in 2023 and had a total of 35 points during her three seasons with the Fleet. Rattray, another power forward of the Fleet, will be another difficult loss for the Fleet when it comes to scoring for the 2026-2027 season.

Another top scorer, Jessie Eldridge, was also lost during expansion. Eldridge signed a two-year deal with Montréal Victoire. Eldridge began her PWHL with the New York Sirens for two seasons. She then signed with the Seattle Torrent last season and was received by the Fleet in a trade in the middle of the season. While Eldridge’s time with the Fleet was short, she made an immediate impact. She quickly became a lead scorer with 7 goals in 11 games. Eldridge is one that the Fleet are going to miss, not only a fan favorite, but a top scorer in the entire league.

Other notable losses are defensemen Hadley Hartmetz, Zoe Boyd, Riley Brengman, and Daniela Pejšová. Hartmetz and Pejšová signed two-year deals with PWHL San Jose while Boyd and Brengman signed two-year deals with PWHL Hamilton.

More losses include goaltender Abbey Levy and defensemen Noemi Neubauerová and Mia Biotti. Levy signed with San Jose on a one-year deal. Neubauerová signed a one-year deal with Seattle Torrent. Biotti signed a one-year contract with Detroit.

Another devastating loss was head coach Kris Sparre. Sparre chose to leave Boston following the 2025-2026 season and went to Hamilton. While the move was difficult, it did put Sparre closer to home, something he wanted to focus on now having a second child born during the season. Sparre coached the Fleet through 30 games this season, holding a record of 16 wins, 5 overtime wins, 4 overtime losses, and 5 losses. Sparre moving to Hamilton played a key role in why many Fleet players signed with Hamilton, as Sparre had an incredible impact on them. François Méthot replaced Sparre.

Overall, Boston lost many major components, specifically their offense. They currently have no power forwards or reliable scorers and will have to rely heavily on their defense for the 2026-2027 season.

The Good that Came Out of Expansion.

While expansion did bring woes and heartbreak with its losses, some good did come! Gold medal-winning U.S Olympic goalie Aerin Frankel was protected and is set to remain with the Fleet until the 2027-2028 season. Frankel performed outstandingly this year, recording 7 shutouts and setting the record for the longest shutout streak of 236 minutes and 45 seconds. She also recorded a record-setting three consecutive shutouts this season.

The Fleet also protected U.S. Olympian Megan Keller and is set to remain until 2028. Keller became captain this season after the Fleet lost their previous captain, Hilary Knight, to Seattle during the previous expansion. She scored nine goals this season, seven during the regular season and two during the playoffs. She holds the record for the most points achieved by a blueliner in a single season with 22 points (7 goals and 15 assists. Most notably this year, Keller was part of the gold-winning 2026 Olympic team, where she scored the golden goal.

The Fleet also protected gold medal U.S Olympian Haley Winn, and recently she signed an extension to remain in Boston until 2029. Winn was a rookie this season and quickly proved she was a valuable piece. Winn scored five goals in her rookie season, setting the record for the most goals scored by a rookie defenseman.

The Fleet also signed Susanna Tapanni, Abby Newhook, Shay Maloney, Jill Saulnier, Sophie Shirley, Liz Schepers, Olivia Mobley, Amanda Thiele, Laura Kluge, Loren Gabel, and Rylinda MacKinnon. Out of these players, Tapanni, Newhook, Maloney, Saulnier, Shirley, Schepers, Mobley, Kluge, and Gabel are forwards, solidifying the Fleet’s offense. Thiele is a goaltender and recorded one game this season as a rookie, saving 21 pucks.

The Fleet also signed Ella Huber. Huber was originally selected by Detroit to complete their 10-player roster. However, they received her back in a trade made with Detroit. Along with Huber, Boston received the #27 pick in the 2026 draft. Detroit received picks #22 and #34. Keeping Huber was a major win for the Fleet. Huber just completed her rookie season and is tracking to be a solid player for the Fleet. Huber being on offense makes her a player the Fleet want to develop into a power forward, strengthening the future of the team’s offense. Plus! This keeps her, Winn, and Newhook together! As rookies, these three were roomies and besties, and let’s just say everyone is happy they are remaining together.

More major signings occurred during free agency. The Fleet signed blueliner Amanda Boulier on a two-year contract. Boulier was acquired from the Victoire, where she won the Walter Cup the 2026-2027 season. Boulier is a New England native and is finally returning to Boston to play near home. The Fleet also signed Taylor House to a one-year contract. House was acquired from the Charge. These two acquisitions will bolster the team’s depth this season.

2026 PWHL Awards: Fleet Sweep!

The Fleet had many finalists going into the 2026 PWHL Awards. Haley Winn was a finalist for Rookie of the Year and Defender of the Year. Megan Keller was a finalist for Defender of the Year. Aerin Frankel was a finalist for Goaltender of the Year and the Billie Jean King MVP Award. Former Head Coach Kris Sparre was a finalist for Coach of the Year.

The night started with naming the All-Rookie Team. Blueliner Haley Winn and forward Abby Newhook were recognized. Haley Winn was also named to the Second All-Star Team. Megan Keller and Aerin Frankel were named First All-Star Team. Kris Sparre took home Coach of the Year, beating the other two finalists, Carla MacLeod of the Ottawa Charge and Kori Cheverie of the Montréal Victoire. Haley Winn won Rookie of the Year over the other finalists, Nicole Gosling of the Victoire and Sarah Fillier of the New York Sirens. Megan Keller then took home Defender of the Year, defeating finalists Sophie Jacques of the Vancouver Goldeneyes and teammate Haley Winn.

Aerin “Aerin Frankel” Frankel took home two awards. Goaltender of the Year and the Billie Jean King MVP Award. I mean, they don’t call her the great Frank-WALL for nothing, I guess! Frankel beat finalists Gwyneth Philips of the Ottawa Charge and Ann-Renée Desbiens of the Victoire for Goaltender of the Year. Other finalists for the Billie Jean King MVP Award included Kelly Pannek of the Minnesota Frost and Desbiens.

The Fleet took home every award they were nominated for, which was every major award besides Forward of the Year. So I would say it was a pretty good night for the team, and the fans!

PWHL 2026 Draft

The 2026 PWHL Draft was held June 17th in Detroit. Notable players in this year’s draft class were Caroline “KK” Harvey, Laila Edwards, Abbey Murphy, Lacey Eden, Tessa Janecke, Kirsten Simms, Sydney Morrow, Grace Dwyer, Nelli Laitinen, and Emma Peschel. The Vancouver Goldeneyes drafted Harvey first overall, adding to her list of accolades this year. KK Harvey won the Patty Kazmaier, an Olympic Gold Medal, another NCAA championship (third time), Winter Olympics Tournament MVP and Best Defender, IIHF Female Player of the Year, WCHA Defender and Player of the Year, and Bob Allen Women’s Player of the Year. Let’s just say Harvey had an incredible year and everyone is excited to watch her shine in the PWHL.

The Boston Fleet had picks #10, #27, #46, #58, and #70. During Round 1, the Fleet drafted blueliner Grace Dwyer from Cornell University 10th overall. Round 3, blueliner Leah Stecker from Penn State University was Boston’s 27th overall pick. Forward Jaden Bogden from Northeastern University was drafted by the Fleet in Round 4 as the 46th overall pick. In Round 5, the Fleet drafted forward Jenna Goodwin as 58th overall from Clarkson University. Last but certainly not least, the Boston Fleet selected Maeve Kelly from Boston University as the 70th overall draft pick in Round 6.

The Fleet’s 2026 draft class is going to add depth to their already strong blueline and some much-needed strength in their offense.

The Boston Fleet Have a New Home

During the team’s 1st three seasons, the Fleet primarily played at Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts, with occasional Takeover Tours and a game at TD Garden. After 26 games at Tsongas Center, the Boston Fleet are saying goodbye. The team announced that they will be moving to Agganis Arena on the Boston University campus starting in 2026-2027.

While this move is exciting as it puts the team’s home games in downtown Boston, many fans are upset. Agganis is much harder to get to for many fans, being in the heart of downtown Boston. However, this move is good for the team as it holds more people than the Tsongas Center did. And it actually puts the Boston Fleet in Boston!

Offseason Review and Recap

This offseason has come with a lot of heartbreak for fans. Losing the team’s head coach and both alternate captains is devastating, especially after such a successful season. However, the Fleet does have a lot to look forward to. They’ve acquired some great signings in Boulier and House, and have an amazing class of draftees lined up for the 2026-2027 season. So while this offseason has been full of ups and downs, I, along with all the other Fleet fans, am ready for the 2026-2027 season. I think we’re all missing our Fleet hockey and can’t wait to see what the 2026-2027 season has in store! Do we think the Fleet are shaping up to replace their losses on the offensive and leadership ends while continuing to keep a strong defense and goaltending to carry the team back to the Walter Cup playoffs in 2027?

On July 22, 2026, fans everywhere watched as the Red Sox tried to break their record for consecutive wins. They didn’t do it, but this team still gave us the summer we’d been waiting for.

By June 24, 2026, the Red Sox were in last place, not just in the AL East but in all of baseball. The season felt hopeless. The front office fired manager Alex Cora and several coaches; Jason Varitek, a fan favorite, was “reassigned” back in April, which only made things feel more chaotic. They brought in Chad Tracy from the WooSox to take over as Interim Manager. Success isn’t just about the choices you make; it’s about what you do next. None of us knew then that things were about to change.

After all the firings, the Red Sox played average baseball until June 25, when they faced the Yankees at home. This was right after a tough loss to the Rockies, so fans expected the worst against our biggest rivals. Instead, the Sox swept the Yankees, and it felt incredible. At first, I thought it was just a brief highlight, especially after they lost the next series to the Nationals. But I was wrong.

Most of the season, I kept saying the Red Sox just needed to find a way to win. There was some talent on the 2026 team, but the Red Sox of early June are not the same team now, mostly because of big roster changes. Those changes seemed to help. On July 3, the Red Sox started a road trip in Anaheim against the Angels, and they won. The amazing part is they didn’t lose the next game, or the next series. They just kept winning, all the way until last night’s game, 15 games and 20 days later.

I’ll never forget those 20 days. All summer, it felt like every good thing the Red Sox did was followed by something going wrong, and being a fan was tough. But just when everyone thought the team was dead, they came alive. The Red Sox hadn’t won 15 games in a row since 1946, back in Ted Williams’ era. I remember hearing stories about those days, and as a kid, I barely remember the 1988 season when they won 12 straight.

Fans were excited as the Red Sox beat the Angels, White Sox, and Mets on the road. After the All-Star break, they returned to Fenway, which had been a tough place for them this season, with a losing record for much of the first half. On July 17, the Sox swept the first-place Rays, then faced the Orioles, who were right behind them in the standings. Fenway was electric, and so were the fans. Will Middlebrooks and Lou Merloni were in the booth with Dave O’Brien on separate nights, and both were just like all Sox fans, full of excitement and disbelief at what they were seeing. The Sox won the first two games, tying the 1946 team’s record for consecutive wins. Last night, they missed out on breaking the record, but by then, it did not even matter.

The Red Sox’s 15-game winning streak turned the season around for both the team and the fans. Baseball was fun to watch again, and our summer finally felt right. Now, the Red Sox are in the third Wild Card spot. Back on June 24, they were 32-46, but as of last night, they’ve won 20 out of 22 games. What a turnaround.

Willson Contreras said, “We have to be happy.” He added, “I don’t want anybody to feel down. I want everybody to be proud of what we did.” And we are. We really are.

I’m not the only one who’s thrilled to have our summer back and a team that looks like a real contender for October. Still, this Red Sox run has been the most fun I’ve had since October 17, 2004. Maybe it’s because none of us saw either of those winning streaks coming.

Thank you, Red Sox, for making me believe again. Buckle up, Red Sox Nation, and keep the faith!

It might sound surprising, but the Sox have won 18 of their last 20 games. It’s hard to believe, especially since, as of yesterday, they’re two games over .500 for the first time this season. Starting June 25, the Red Sox swept the Yankees in four games at Fenway. After that, they dropped two out of three to the Nationals, wrapping up that series on July 1. Since then, they haven’t lost once. It’s impressive that this streak started before the All-Star break and has continued through their four-game series against the first-place Tampa Bay Rays.

Winning thirteen games in a row puts the 2026 Red Sox alongside the 1948 team for the second-longest streak in team history.

The Sox are two wins short of tying the franchise-record 15-game streak set in 1946. For baseball fans, this kind of run hasn’t happened since Ted Williams played! Willson

Contreras and Wilyer Abreu are two of the biggest contributors to this recent winning streak.

Lately, the Red Sox seem to be doing everything right. Interim manager Chad Tracy said, “You’re winning games against clubs that have a chance to be in the playoffs. That’s important. It’s important that we’re playing this way out of the All-Star break. It’s important that we’re doing it at home. All those things matter.” Tracy has a point: the Red Sox now hold the third wild-card spot and are only six games behind the Rays. It’s amazing to think that, back on June 24, they were more than 15 games behind the Rays.

I don’t want to jinx it by saying what I’m hoping for now that the Red Sox are on this streak, but it’s not out of reach. It’s happened before; just look at the 2025 Cleveland Guardians. For those who don’t remember, the Guardians made history by overcoming a 15½-game deficit, an advantage the Tigers held on July 8, and winning the division.

The Red Sox are set to play their next two series at home against the Baltimore Orioles and the Toronto Blue Jays. The first game is tonight, and with Payton Tolle pitching against Shane Baz, the Red Sox have a decent shot at winning. I’m not sure what turned things around for the team, but I’m loving every minute of a season I nearly gave up on. For the first time this year, making the playoffs feels real. As always, buckle up.

There is magic in the air. The Boston Red Sox (50-48) have climbed all the way out of the basement in the American League and now sit in playoff position thanks to an unbelievable 13-game win streak. Perhaps baseball seasons cannot be declared dead in the month of June!

General Thoughts

It’s impossible to overstate how much fun the month of July has been. What had become a nightmarish routine day after day has turned into pure joy. The Red Sox are super fun again. No longer am I sitting in front of the TV wondering how they are going to lose. I am dreaming of how they are going to win. Clutch home runs, phenomenal defensive plays, a pitching staff that is lights-out. Everything is clicking right now.

I’m sure most know, but it’s worth reiterating how important it is to stop and take a look around during times like these. Almost no one alive remembers seeing a run like this. Who cares if it all ends tomorrow? Right now, it feels like it could last forever. Enjoy it while we have it.

This team now has the second-longest winning streak in franchise history, tied with the 1948 team that went 96-59 and ultimately had their season ended in a one-game playoff against the Cleveland Indians. Fun fact about that game: it was the first Red Sox game to be broadcast on television. We’re in rare air.

There is no other sport on the planet like baseball. I said this in a recap in the middle of June: bad baseball is better than no baseball. What also comes from bad baseball is a hope that maybe, just maybe, your favorite team could turn things around and make a once-in-a-generation run to the playoffs. Historically bad starts are just that…history. It’s not a determining factor as to how the rest of the season will play out. Things change over 162 games. Other teams regress, players get hurt, and opportunities are opened for teams that were once left for dead.

Narratives that are so easily built in other sports like football take until the final week of September to be set in concrete. There is nothing that can be proven from the first month. It looks like there’s less to be proven in the second and third. The season is, at times, a gross and long slog. This team has proven they have the guts to rewrite whatever narratives that were being penned. Not only can they shut up doubters from around the country, they can silence the critics in their own backyard.

The summer has been saved. Everything from here on out has become a million times more interesting than it otherwise would have been. We are right back in the middle of a run to the postseason. October baseball is very much on the table.

The broadcast booth is on fire right now. I’ve long said it, but OB and Lou are at their best when the Sox are playing good baseball. I don’t blame OB for sounding disinterested or aloof earlier this year. That’s the effort the team was bringing each night. There was no way to make that kind of play interesting short of starting a stand up career in the booth. Lou perfectly feeds off of OB’s reenergized calls and it makes for a great listen. I saw an edit online of each of the last 13 wins set to the Moneyball soundtrack…chills. OB and Lou: as hot as the team.

Tarps off? I’m still not convinced. To blatantly rip off another team’s rally cry is pretty lame. It’s why I didn’t like it when the Phillies used “Dancing on My Own” as their playoff song the year after we did. Worth noting: this take could be due to the fact that I no longer partake in the art of the bev-rag-ino. I’m sure it feels good to be a young pup in the bleachers with your shirt off while the Sox rip their 13th game in a row. Either way, the sooner we find something unique to us, the better.

Baseball Savant has made updates over the last few weeks that make the site drastically better. They recently unveiled the ability to compare players! I’ve always struggled with the comparison, having two (or more) tabs open to try to form my opinion/argument. No more! All on one screen is a God-send. They also debuted the ability to look at a player’s progression year-over-year rather than having to watch an animated Microsoft PowerPoint type slide on it. Cool things. Helpful things!

Sox Notes

While the streak is getting all of the attention, it’s worth noting that the team is 18-2 over their last 20 games. An absurd rise from the ashes. Phoenix-eqsue.

Like we’ve said all year: if this team could just be average offensively, this team could do some damage. That has become our reality.

July has looked even better. They rank 7th in home runs, 6th in RBI, and 5th in runs. I don’t expect the offensive output to continue at this pace for the remainder of the summer, but it’s a good reminder that they have the potential to do damage. You would have been hard-pressed to find anyone in the area who held any sort of belief in the offense a month ago. Now? It’s a different story.

Wilyer Abreu played the Willson Contreras role this series and willed the Sox to victory. He hit .357/.471/1.214/1.685 in the series with FOUR home runs and six RBIs. Don’t forget that Wilyer was the hero for Venezuela in the WBC; he has the clutch gene. It’s so great to see him start to fire on all cylinders at the plate. If he can consistently produce at this above-average level he’s showcased, he could become a perennial All-Star and down-ballot MVP vote getter. It’s the best experience I evah had!

Even with the explosion of offense from Caleb Durbin as of late, there is still room to grow. Combine his atrocious start with the fact that his current average (.236) is still twenty points away from where he ended up last year and you have the potential for Durbin to have a hell of a summer. Since I correctly pontificated about the potential for a Durbin turnaround on May 22nd, he’s hitting .301/.351/.532/.883 with eight homers, 25 RBIs, and 27 runs scored in 45 games. Principal Durbin forever!

There are so many guys you could write about, but so little time. Shout out to this whole team for making me happy again. Anthony Seigler in particular. Really love that guy’s energy.

There’s an interesting conversation to be had about what to do with the guys who are currently injured. This team is gelling at a rate almost unfathomable. It’ll be interesting to see how the “additions” of Mayer, Story, and Anthony are framed. It sounds ridiculous, but are we really going to concede at-bats from Seigler and give them to Mayer? Does a Romy/Monasterio combination help this team more than Story?

The clearest way to figure out this logjam would be to send Mayer down to AAA until another injury popped up at the big league level. He has looked overmatched in his time with the Sox. I’m not sure another stint in the minors really helps to correct that issue, but we’re past the point of being able to let him figure it out here. Whatever needs to be done should be done out of sight from this current team.

Roman Anthony’s injury updates read like a nightmare. He’s still not swinging a bat down in Florida. What was once an urgent need for his return has taken a bit of a backseat, though. We seem fine without him (for now), so maybe that takes some of the pressure off of him to return. Either way, he’s a core member of the long-term plan. It’s probably best that he gets some at-bats sooner rather than later.

Trevor Story, I promise I’m not trying to be mean when I say this, but I can’t have you near this team right now. Every injury update that I read where I’m told he’s getting closer to a return brings me immense pain. The weird is working. Stick with the weird. Did we not learn our lesson from Brayan Bello and the opener thing earlier this year?

It’s tough to get a read on where the Sox are in terms of the deadline. Craig’s recent comments made it seem like he wasn’t completely sold on the idea of this team being real enough to buy, but that could just be his robot attempt to not show his hand. I’ve seen names like Shea Langaliers, Hunter Goodman, and Hunter Greene in mock trades. All of those would be great, but none of those seem realistic. What does seem realistic is the above trade. Not sure what we’d have to give up to get Garcia, but that pool of players expands with every win. If we could slot him into the DH role while Contreras continues to man 1B, that would be awesome. He’s hitting .279/.312/.545/.857 with 20 homers, 68 RBIs, and 16 doubles on the year.

Rays Observations

We may have stolen whatever devil magic the Rays had going on this year. I said in the ASB recap that they were the final team in the American League I was afraid of. No more. It hit me during the third game of the series when the broadcast was showing their defensive positioning for the game. These guys are randos! Not like our randos who are obviously very good and will sustain their abilities for the rest of the season. These are some real randos.

Junior Caminero is going to win MVP within the next two years. He just turned 23 and he’s already at 81 career home runs. It would not surprise me to see him enter his age-24 season somewhere in the top five most home runs through age 23. Caminero is also one of the coolest on the field. Please, God, do not let him go to a team like the Yankees. He’s not gonna finish his career in Tampa, so let’s hold out hope he signs/gets traded to a team that doesn’t stymie his aura.

The fact that we got to Shane McClanahan makes me smile. He was the toughest test in my brain and we hung six runs (four earned) on him. Sucks that he ran into a wagon like the Boston Red Sox, but good for my mentals!

What’s Ahead

The red-hot Baltimore Orioles (49-51) come into Fenway for a three-game set. They’ve won seven in a row, so while we may be riding our high horses, this is going to be a true test. Iron sharpens iron, I guess.

The Orioles are coming off back-to-back sweeps against the Kansas City Royals (40-60) and the Houston Astros (47-54). So, not exactly three scary teams, but professional baseball teams nonetheless.

The season series is tied 3-3. It would be great to continue the sweep trend, but just getting a series win would be great given where both teams currently are.

LHP Payton Tolle (5-6, 3.11 ERA) will toe the rubber against RHP Shane Baz (4-9, 4.19 ERA) in game one. While Baz’s ERA may seem a bit inflated, he’s done well in his four career starts at Fenway, posting a 2-1 record with a 2.92 ERA. Tolle was on a bit of a pitch count the last time we saw him, so eyes will be on whether or not that is a trend or a function of that particular start.

RHP Kyle Bradish (6-9, 3.61 ERA) gets the ball against TBD in game two. I’ve heard good things about this TBD guy. Kidding aside, I wonder if Bello finally gets the nod to return as a starter.

LHP Jake Bennett (5-3, 2.35 ERA) will be trusted to close out the series against RHP Dean Kremer (1-2, 4.15 ERA). Bennett has been one of the best pitchers in the league since he was called up a second time. However, like Tolle, he’s approaching his innings total of last year, so I wonder how long of a leash he gets in this game.

Sounds like we’re not going to see Adley Rutschman or Samuel Basallo in this series. I like both the players, but they’re good, so I’m happy to not have to face them.

The positivity train rolls on. Why not sweep another series? Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!!

2026 Record by Series Game:
Game 1: 16-16
Game 2: 19-12*
Game 3: 13-19*
Game 4: 2-1
*game two of the rained-out Yankees series still to be played August 29th.

Chad Tracy: 40-31 record
6-13 in challenges (46.2%)
1 ejection

FanGraphs Playoff Odds: 58.3%
Series 19: 26.3%
Series 20: 23.1%
Series 21: 21.3%
Series 22: 12.2%
Series 23: 16.1%
Series 24: 9.7%
Series 25: 10.8%
Series 27: 18%
Series 30: 30.4%
Series 31: 39.9%
All-Star Break: 40.1%

2026 Season Confidence: B-

World Series Odds: +2700 (down from +3500 last series)

Sox-Related Bets: Red Sox Over 87.5 wins +100 6U, Red Sox win American League +700 1U, Red Sox to win AL East +325 1U, Garrett Crochet Cy Young +450 10U, Roman Anthony MVP +2200 1U, Roman Anthony MVP +2000 5U, Roman Anthony MVP +1700 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1400 2U, Red Sox win World Series +1800 5U, Roman Anthony to win AL MVP & Garrett Crochet to win AL Cy Young +7500 1U, Boston Red Sox Longest Reg Season Win Streak – Over 7.5 Wins +100 1U, Roman Anthony Over 65½ RBIs -115 2U

Blind Trust List: Wally the Green Monster, Willson Contreras, Aroldis Chapman, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, Jake Bennett, Caleb Durbin????