Red Sox (Again) Have Chance To Make Statement In Playoff Race

It might seem early, but the Red Sox this weekend have a serious chance to make a statement in the American League wild-card race.

Boston eased by the Oakland Athletics at Fenway Park on Thursday to win the series. The result was the Red Sox's eighth win in their last 10 games, and they welcome a Kansas City Royals side that they are one game ahead of in the AL wild card.

This weekend's series also is the club's last before the MLB All-Star break. A little momentum heading into the break could serve as beneficial, especially with the trade deadline nearing.

It won't be an easy task given the Royals arguably haven't played up to the talent of their roster. Of course, Bobby Witt Jr. will be the man to watch. The star shortstop is tied for second with Aaron Judge with the most fWAR this season at 5.7, and he heads into Friday with 15 home runs, 62 RBIs and 22 stolen bases under his belt. Salvador Pérez still is playing at an All-Star level leading Kansas City with 16 home runs.

A big test for Boston also will be against the Royals starting pitching. The Red Sox will face the top trio of Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo and Brady Singer this weekend, and they lead a consistent rotation for the Royals that is third in MLB in innings pitched at 530; Kansas City's starters also are third in MLB with a 3.50 ERA.

The Red Sox offense has gotten through this season with speed but holding off the Royals in mid-July could go a long way for them in the long run.

There's also the added effect of the New York Yankees playing the Baltimore Orioles this weekend, too. Aaron Boone's side continued its slump this week when they lost their series against the Tampa Bay Rays, and they've yet to get the better of the American League East-leading O's. The Bronx Bombers likely continue their struggles this weekend, so solid results against the Royals would do wonders for Boston's climb up the wild card and AL East standings.

Of course, the Red Sox need to take care of their own business first, and Cora will look to have his side ready to go for a good finish before the All-Star break. First pitch for the first matchup of the three-game series against the Royals is scheduled at 7:10 p.m. ET on NESN.