Such is the case this weekend in Seattle, where the Sox look to right a sinking ship against the miserable Mariners.
Here are a few items to look for in the series at Safeco Field.
No Offense
Considering the fact that two All-Stars remain sidelined, it's no surprise that the Red Sox' offensive attack has hit a wall. Still, the recent run of futility has been somewhat shocking.
Boston has scored four runs or fewer in eight consecutive games and has been limited to five or fewer in 13 out of 14. It hardly resembles the club that has led the majors in runs scored for much of the season.
The Mariners entered Wednesday ranked fourth in the American League in ERA with a 3.94 mark, so it won't get any easier. Dustin Pedroia and Victor Martinez cannot come back sooner.
Josh's Journey
It's been over two months since Josh Beckett slipped on a muddy mound at Yankee Stadium, shipping him to the disabled list with a lower back strain. He will return Friday night.
To stay afloat without Beckett for two months is impressive, but the Sox' chances at long-term success may hinge on his ability to regain the form that has seen him win at least 15 games in four of his five seasons in Boston.
The righty picked a good place to make his comeback — he is 2-0 with a 1.98 ERA in Safeco Field.
Jet City Sorrow
The Sox loved playing in the old Kingdome, going 73-53 in the multi-purpose monstrosity. Since the wrecking ball came and gleaming Safeco Field was built, Boston's fortunes in the Jet City have changed.
In the 11 years they have played in Safeco, the Sox have gone 22-30. They've had a winning record in the 11-year-old park just once in the past 10 years. Their last visit resulted in a 3-2 loss in which shortstop Nick Green made a critical throwing error that led to a run in the bottom of the ninth inning.
