A Bullpen That Defies the Record
Boston's 2026 campaign has been marked by a disappointing 21‑27 record that leaves the franchise near the bottom of the American League East.
What has kept the team afloat in close games is a bullpen that ranks second in the league with a 3.03 earned run average, trailing only the Texas Rangers.
The relief corps is anchored by veteran left‑hander Aroldis Chapman, who has yielded just one run over 15.2 innings this season and already secured 11 saves.
Garrett Whitlock, whose win‑probability added ranks fourth among relievers since the start of the 2025 campaign, continues to be a reliable bridge to the later innings.
Justin Slaten has posted a 3.14 ERA across 97.1 frames and has not allowed a run in his first eight appearances of 2026, underscoring his durability.
Perfect When Ahead After Seven
Left‑handers Jovani Moran and Tyler Samaniego have also contributed, with Samaniego posting a 1.10 ERA that places him eighth in the majors among relievers.
The most striking statistic is the Red Sox’s perfect record when they hold a lead after seven innings; they are 19‑0 in such situations, turning late‑game advantages into automatic wins.
The bullpen’s dominance will be tested on Wednesday night in Kansas City, where starter Connelly Early is scheduled to face Royals pitcher Michael Wacha in a series finale.