Last night, Chris Sale was chased after only 4 1/3 innings after giving up 3 runs in 7 innings in the 9-2 loss to the New York Yankees. This comes just two starts after he was lit up by the Indians for 6 earned runs in only 3 innings of work. As these both are likely playoff teams it should give Red Sox fans some cause for concern.
This season, Sale has been a true ace for the Red Sox with a 15-7 record going along with 2.70ERA, .94WHIP, with 270K's over 189 2/3 innings. However, he has not faired particularly well against potential playoff teams the Cleveland Indians and New York Yankees. This season in 2 starts with Cleveland he has not be able to make it past the 5th inning getting tagged for 7 and 6 runs in each of the 2 starts this season. Further cause for concern is that he holds a 4.78 lifetime ERA against the club dating back from his time on the White Sox. With Houston (83-53) currently holding a 3 game lead over the Indians for the number 1 spot in the American League, they could be a likely ALDS opponent for the Red Sox if they hold onto the AL East.
Against the Yankees this season, the Red Sox are only 1-4 while Chris Sale holds a respectable 2.64ERA. What was uncharacteristic of Sale's performance last night was giving up 3 home runs, including back to back shots from Chase Headley and Matt Holliday. The high pitch count totals were a bit concerning as he was up to 45 after 2 innings and had 109 when he was finally lifted after 4 1/3 innings. The Yankees were able to work him deep into counts with consistency while Luis Severino pitched masterfully over 6 innings allowing only an unearned run with 2 hits and 9K's.
I expect Sale to right the ship after he passes the 300K plateau this season for the first time in the next 3-4 starts. The Red Sox will need to rely on him big time if they hope to have a deep playoff run this season. With an expected playoff rotation of Sale, Porcello, and Pomeranz he will be needed to go deep into games saving an already overworked bullpen.
The Red Sox will also hope to get some usage out of Eduardo Rodriguez and their hottest starter of late Doug Fister. David Price looked impressive in his bullpen debut but it is unclear whether he will have any value in the playoffs. Given the issues with his elbow and lacking the mental makeup to pitch successfully in Boston, we shall see if he can ever turn it around with the Fenway Faithful.