We sent 5 guys to the A-S game based on the extraordinarily successful achievements of a lowly regarded team. Martinez, Devers, Barnes, Eovaldi, and Bogaerts went repping the Sox who at the time had about the best W-L record in both leagues. The only one of those who remained consistent was Nate Eovaldi, and even his W's only went from 9 to 11 on over 70 games . granted W's and L's are poor indicators of effectiveness for pitchers. Barnes went completely beserk, and the 3 amigo hitters all declined in production.
Covid vaxxing aside, makes me wonder what the real vibe in that clubhouse was between vets and rookies/AAAA'ers, pitchers/position players, the revolving door with WooSox, including many guys who were not part of the 2018 WS winners. Is the second half swoon due in part to poor team chemistry, or are these guys truly supportive teammates ?