Red Sox News & Links: Giving thanks for rookie starters

"The Red Sox and Phillies have had similar starts to the season: they're two big ballclubs with big aspirations who both immediately fell on their faces, prompting two managerial firings. And while the Phillies have done a better job righting the ship under their new skipper than the Sox have, they'll both share some history tonight, as it's the first time in 22 years that two teams with new managers will face off this early in the season. (Thomas Harrigan, MLB.com)"

"When the Sox rolled out five straight left-handed starters last week, it was the first time they had done so since 2018. They've also had more games started by rookies this year (14) than any other team and, for the most part, those rookie hurlers have come through. (Alex Speier, Boston Globe)"

"The success of the rookie Red Sox pitchers points to a well-functioning minor league system. But that system received a shock with the Alex Cora firing and the subsequent coaching staff shuffle, and that hasn't been easy for the organization to deal with. "There's times when change happens and you kind of see it coming," said Portland Sea Dogs coach Kyle Sasala. "None of us saw this coming. I woke up one day and was defensive coach. Next day, I was the manager." (Alex Speier, Boston Globe)"

"Speaking of things no one sees coming, is Trevor Story poised to turn his season around? "It's only a matter of time," says the veteran shortstop. (Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald)"

The Red Sox and Phillies both began the season poorly, leading to managerial firings. The Phillies have improved more quickly under their new manager than the Red Sox have under theirs. The matchup is notable because it is the first time in 22 years that two teams with new managers meet this early in the season. Boston recently used five consecutive left-handed starters for the first time since 2018. The Red Sox have started more rookie pitchers than any other team, with many performing well. The organization’s minor league system has supported this success, though it faced disruption after Alex Cora’s firing and coaching staff changes. Trevor Story is also viewed as potentially ready to rebound.

Read at Over the Monster