Welcome to Opening Day, where hope springs eternal.
The Boston Red Sox’s quest for a World Series title begins Thursday in St. Petersburg, Fla., where they’ll open the regular season against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Of course, many obstacles stand between Boston and a ninth championship. The reigning champion Houston Astros arguably got better this offseason, and a loaded New York Yankees team could make even winning the American League East a stiff challenge for the Sox. Alex Cora is entering uncharted waters in his first season as a major league manager. Questions linger about the health of the starting rotation and the consistency of the offense.
But make no mistake: The potential is there. The Red Sox landed a big fish in free agent slugger J.D. Martinez and roll into the season with the highest projected payroll in baseball. They have the talent to compete with anybody, and their ceiling is unmistakable: a World Series title.
So, how can the Sox reach the top of the mountain? Glad you asked.
