Red Sox Struggle Early In 2026 Season Amid Injury Woes

Red Sox Struggle Early In 2026 Season Amid Injury Woes...

The Boston Red Sox are off to a rocky start in the 2026 MLB season, currently sitting at 4-8 through their first 12 games. Fans are growing concerned as the team battles injuries to key players, including star shortstop Trevor Story, who landed on the 10-day IL with a strained hamstring.

Boston's pitching staff has also struggled, posting a 5.12 ERA that ranks among the worst in the American League. The bullpen blew two late leads this week against division rival Tampa Bay, dropping the Red Sox to last place in the AL East.

Manager Alex Cora addressed reporters before tonight's game against Baltimore. "We're not panicking," Cora said. "It's a long season, but we need to clean up our defensive mistakes and get healthier."

The Red Sox offense has shown flashes, with Rafael Devers batting .310 and newcomer outfielder James Wood delivering clutch hits. However, the team ranks near the bottom of the league in runs scored, compounding their pitching problems.

With the Yankees and Orioles off to hot starts, Boston faces an early test of their playoff aspirations. The Red Sox host Baltimore this weekend at Fenway Park, where they've gone just 2-4 so far this season.

Ticket sales remain strong despite the slow start, but fan forums and sports talk radio reflect growing frustration. Many are questioning whether GM Craig Breslow should make early moves to bolster the roster.

The Red Sox haven't missed the playoffs in consecutive seasons since 2014-15. At their current pace, that streak could be in jeopardy unless they turn things around quickly. Tonight's game against Baltimore starts at 7:10 PM ET on NESN.