This is probably not a popular theory but your opinions are welcome.
It is premised on the surmise that the Red Sox would be hard pressed to prevail over Seattle or Houston in a 3 game away series. to advance to the ALDS
Would the team , at all levels FO included, be better off furthering the fade and just miss the WC 3 or sneak in with a headfirst slide , only to get flushed asap in the WC round ?
The first failure option could force an even harder look at players, Cora/coaches, and roster margins based on the ongoing disappointments . It could influence FA spending for yet another key hitter , probably 1B or DH.
Or is it better to squeak in, play 2, maybe 3 games, then go home ? This would give the organization cover for moves/lack of moves in '25 and still declare it a huge success. I'm thinking Sam Kennedy here. You know deep down the Sox do not have , right now, the pitching nor lineup depth to compete for the championship level. A small feel good moment, get these guys the look and feel of playoff ball , vs the disappointment/failure motivation of just missing out ?
Which choice would you put on the 2025 Red Sox ?