There are several ways to win a WS. Last year was by winning 108 games while slaughtering everyone in POs including the Yankees in their own turf.
Maybe this year will be different. I wouldn't discard the Sox, not just yet. There's a lot of talent in the offense and rotation, and while the BP has been a mess in late innings, if the Sox figure out how to solve it, be careful. Nobody will want to face us in POs if we are hot and with all engines oiled.